New York & New Jersey -- May 6 -- 12, 2016

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Volume 10 – Issue 19 • 16 Pages

MA Y 6 - 1 2 , 2 0 1 6 Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

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It’s Duterte-Marcos for Iglesia ni Cristo by JonaThan de

sanTos

Philstar.com

IGLesIA ni Cristo-run eagle Broadcasting Corp. has reported that the influential church will support Davao City mayor rodrigo Duterte and sen. ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos Jr. in the may 9 elections. eagle News reported on its website that Duterte and marcos were included in sample ballots already distributed to members across the country. the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) had previously declined to comment on the existence of the sample ballots. According to the report, aside The bloc-voting, homegrown Christian sect Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) on Wednesday, May 4,

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DATELINE

endorsed Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte for President and Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for Vice President in Monday’s national elections.

USA

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

US extradites Fil-Am suspect in Olongapo murder the primary suspect of the heinous murder of 23-year-old Karie Ces “Aika” mojica in olongapo City, Zambales in July last year was extradited by the Us back to the Philippines on sunday, may 1. filipino-American Jonathan Dewayne Viane, 29, was turned over by agents of the federal Bureau of Investigation (fBI) after getting arrested in Iowa september 3 of last year. Viane arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at 4 am sunday morning. Viane allegedly murdered mojica, a store supervisor and his wife’s best friend last July 25. the murder went viral on social media after mojica’s body was found burned, strangled and shot before being disposed in a dike in san felipe, Zambales. reports say that mojica had a conversation with Viane the night before her mur-

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Judge orders Silicon Valley tech company to pay workers more than

$160K in back minimum wage, overtime back pay and damages Investigation finds workers received as little as $1.66 per hour, in PH pesos

sAN frANCIsCo — A federal court has entered a consent judgment that orders a silicon Valley electronics manufacturer to pay more than $80,000 in minimum wage and overtime back pay and an equal, additional amount in damages to its workers after the Us Department of Labor discovered violations of the fair Labor standards Act. Nearly $8,000 in civil money penalties were also assessed against the employer. the department’s Wage and hour Division investigators determined that BitmICro Networks, Inc. in fremont brought computer engineers from its subsidiary in the Philippines to work in the U.s. and

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ELECTION PREPARATION. Workers rush to package vote counting machines (VCMs) at the COMELEC warehouse in at Sta. Rosa, Laguna, where a transmission of mock elections results is also held duing the weekend in preparation for the May 9 elections. Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez

West Point chapel returns San Pedro IMF: PH to be fastest-growing bell to Bauang, La Union church by MoMar

g. visaya

AJPress

West PoINt, NY – the parish priest of the church, filipino officials and community members, a few cadets and parishioners took turns in ringing the san Pedro bell one last time on April 29, before it was sent back to its rightful home in Bauang, La Union after remaining for 101 years in West Point, New York. “the return of the san Pedro Bell embodies the strong bond and deep understanding of our nations, particularly when we were allies during the first and second World Wars, the Korean War and the Vietnam conflict. We are therefore extremely grateful as a country and as an ally to the United states,” said Consul General mario L. de Leon, Jr. most holy trinity Catholic Chapel chaplain mat-

u PAGE A2 Consul General Mario L. de Leon, Jr. and Col. Wayne Green, chief of staff of the United States Military Academy are seen here behind the 834-pound San Pedro bell, an alloy of gold, silver and copper. The bell is now on its way to its rightful home, the Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church in Bauang, La Union. AJPress Photo by Troi Santos

ASEAN economy for next two years Strong demand to drive GDP at fastest pace among Asean-5 by Mayvelin

U. caraballo ManilaTimes.net

the Philippines is poised to be the fastest growing economy in southeast Asia this year and the next, the International monetary fund (Imf) said in a new regional report. In its “regional economic outlook for Asia and the Pacific,” the multilateral institution forecasts higher 2016-2017 gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the Philippines compared to the rest of Association of southeast Asian Nations (Asean)-5. the Imf said Philippine real GDP growth is likely to hit 6 percent this year and 6.2 percent in 2017, higher than Indonesia’s 4.9 and 5.3 percent;

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Poe: Filipinos fed Binay, Roxas sign up with ‘straight pact for honest, path’ policy truthful polls by Maila

ager Inquirer.net

by llanesca

T. PanTi

ManilaTimes.net

CAVIte — Presidential aspirant senator Grace Poe hit the administration LIBerAL Party presidential bet manuel anew on tuesday, may 3, saying that “mar” roxas 2nd, Vice President Jejomar people are already fed up and “disilBinay and 16 senatorial aspirants signed lusioned” with its “daang matuwid” a covenant for truthful, responsible, Up(straight path) policy. right, transparent and honest (trUth) “Ang mga tao ay sawang-sawa na, elections on monday, may 2, a week beang mga tao ay disillusioned dahil pafore the country goes to the polls. DIVINE INTERVENTION. Presidential candidates Vice President Jejomar Binay shakes hands with laging idinidiin ‘daang matuwid, daang the two presidential candidates and the Manuel Roxas after signing the covenant for Truthful, Responsible, Upright, Transparent & Honest matuwid’ samantalang nakikita naman other bets vowed to avoid using violence, (TRUTH) Elections after a Mass at the Manila Cathedral on Monday, May 2. The signing was witnessed natin ang serbisyo ay palpak sa maramdeceit, fraud and other unfair and dishon- by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Commission on Elections Chairman Andres Bautista, among others. ing ahensya ng gobyerno,” Poe said in u PAGE A3 CBCP photo by Roy Lagarde an interview after holding a motorcade in this vote-rich province for more than six hours. (The Filipino people are fed up, they tion on the bank accounts allegedly candidate regarding the alleged bank are disillusioned with the “straight by ben o. de vera, owned by presidential aspirant ro- accounts of a certain presidential path” policy while we see that the serchrisTine o. avendaño drigo “Digong” Duterte did not come candidate,” the BsP officer in charge vices in many government agencies are and niña P. calleJa Inquirer.net from them. (oIC), Vicente s. Aquino, said in a inefficient.) “We would like to categorically state statement. “matagal ko nang pinupuna rin ‘yan. the BANGKo sentral ng Pilipinas that the BsP and the AmLC are not the he was referring to sen. Antonio Nakikita natin na hindi nagiging prayoridad ang pangangailangan ng ating mga (BsP) and the Anti-money Laundering source of the documents and informa- trillanes IV, a vice presidential candiu PAGE A3 Council (AmLC) said leaked informa- tion being cited by a vice presidential u PAGE A3

BSP, AMLC deny leaking Digong bank info

A MAY 6-12, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

From the Front Page

It’s Duterte-Marcos for Iglesia ni… PAGE A1 t

ELECTION SECURITY. The Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6th ID) on Thursday, May 5 activated a 1,000-member military security task force to help the poll body secure politically troubled areas in central Mindanao on May 9. The contingent, named Task Force CHOP (clean, honest, orderly and peaceful elections). Brawner and his men are backed by a dozen combat vehicles, tanks and motorized watercraft for security operations in marshlands and polling precincts along rivers criss-crossing the adjoining North Cotabato and Maguindanao provinces. Philstar.com photo by John Unson

West Point chapel returns San Pedro bell …

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thew Pawlikowski led a mass for the event participants before leading a procession to the bell outside the chapel. The chaplain also blessed the bell in a valediction ceremony, right before the bell was rung for the last time, then unbolted to be prepped for shipping. “Last November, we received a letter from the pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, established in 1587 and through that letter, we learned that the church is also the home of the San Pedro bell,” said Col. Wayne Green, Chief of Staff of the United States Military Academy. “There was no question on the proper disposition that we should take. We knew the right and honorable thing to do was to send San Pedro bell home.” Col. Green also said that for the past six months or so, they communicated back on forth with the Bauang parish on how they can return the bell. “We’re now here today in the spirit of friendship and cooperation to say farewell to the San Pedro bell which has been part of the West Point community for many years and return it to its rightful place,” Col. Green added. “In doing so, we not only affirm our commitment to one another but

also return to Sts. Peter and Paul its voice and it is our hope that through this bell, the church will speak to the community for many generations to come.” San Pedro Bell History “It is said that the history of West Point is the history of America. The bell is part of that,” said Sonny Busa, a community leader representing the US-Philippine Society and the West Point Society of the Philippines. “The return of the bell is a manifestation of the strong bilateral ties between the United States and the Philippines,” he added. In 1833, Father Mariano Garcia, assistant priest of Bauang, La Union was given a large bell by the province’s Lieutenant-Governor, D. Mariano Balancio and a Lieutenant D.D. Hilario Calica. The 834-pound bell, an alloy of gold, silver and copper, was baptized and named San Pedro. It was almost destroyed during the Philippine-American War. Engraved on the bell are these words: ‘Siendo Cura Parroco El M.P.P.F. Mariano Garcia Ano de 1883 / Donacion del Gobernadorcillo D. Mariano Balancio y del teniente D. Hilario Calica A su Yglesia de Bauang’. The bell was brought to the United States in 1902 after the U.S.

forces took it in 1899. In 1915, the bell came to West Point. “It was during the process of chasing Emilio Aguinaldo then. The U.S. Army had an SOP that if they see things that could be converted into bullets, they would confiscate them. The bell was one of the things they seized in the town of Bauang, La Union,” explained Busa, a retired Department of State foreign service officer. “They heard a rumor that the insurgents, the insurrectos were making artillery out of church bells, so they took the town’s bell.” Thomas Barry, a West Point graduate from the Class of 1877 served in the Philippines during the Philippine-American War and subsequently became the 27th Superintendent of the Military Academy. Through cooperative efforts in the Philippines, Barry was instrumental in sending the bell to West Point in 1915. The bell remained in the church belfry for 44 years unhung and unrung only to be discovered during the 1959 expansion of the chapel. Before being shipped to the Philippines, the bell stayed outside the chapel on a base which was designed in the 1980s and funded by the West Point chapter of the Daughters of the U.S. Army.

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from Duterte and Marcos, the church is also supporting the following candidates for senator: • Former Technical Skills Education and Development Administration Director-General Joel Villanueva • Philippine Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon • Senate President Franklin Drilon • Philippine Health Insurance Corp. Director Risa Hontiveros • Former Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino • Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez • Sen. Ralph Recto • Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao • Sen. Vicente Sotto III • Valenzuela Rep. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian

• Former Sen. Panfilo Lacson • Former Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri Eagle News reported that INC Executive Minister Eduardo Manalo “reminded all the brethren to follow God’s teachings on unity when they go to the polls on May 9” in a circular letter read by INC ministers. Endorsement by the INC is considered a potential game changer, with President Benigno Aquino III himself meeting with Manalo on Monday, May 2. “For the church members, voting as one body is part of following the teachings contained in the Bible regarding unity, and not allowing divisions within the Church of Christ,” the Eagle News report said. INC spokesman Ka Edwil Zabala earlier Thursday declined to confirm whether an announce-

ment had already been made on who the church will support on election day. “Wala pa rin naman na nababago sa sinabi ko sa mga taga-press/media na nagtanong. Kapag nasabi na namin sa mga kapatid namin sa Iglesia kung sino ang napagakaisahang iboto ng INC ay malalaman din ninyo,” he said in a text message. Eagle News quoted him as saying, however, that church members have been patiently waiting for the INC leadership’s decision. “The moment INC members receive that decision — since we are fully convinced about the biblical basis for upolding unity — we will abide by that decision,” he said in the Eagle News report. The Eagle News report is thus far the closest to an official church statement on the endorsements. n

IMF: PH to be fastest-growing ASEAN… PAGE A1 t Malaysia’s 4.4 and 4.8 percent; Thailand’s 3 percent and 3.2 percent; and Singapore 1.8 percent and 2.2 percent, respectively. Domestic demand “The modest uptick in growth is expected to be driven by the continued strength of domestic demand, which will more than offset the drag from net exports. The latter will remain subdued, but spillovers from China are and will continue to be smaller [in the Philippines] than in other parts of the region,” it said. The IMF added that domestic demand would benefit from higher public consumption and investment growth, but private demand was also expected to remain buoyant, helped by low unemployment, low oil prices, and higher workers’ remittances. “Private investment growth is expected to remain robust owing to improvements in public infrastructure and implementation of public-private partnership projects,” it said. The IMF forecasts were lower than the government’s 6.8 percent to 7.8 percent target for 2016 as well as the 6.6 percent to 7.6 percent range set for 2017. GDP growth eased to 5.8 percent last year from 6.1 percent in 2014 on the back of a slowdown in exports and other factors.

In the IMF’s latest Regional Economic Outlook for Asia and the Pacific (REO), the Philippines is seen recording the fastest gross domestic product (GDP) growth among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-5 (Asean-5) this year. Philstar.com photo by Paulo Alcazaren

Asia growth engine Meanwhile, the IMF said growth in Asia and the Pacific is expected to remain strong at 5.3 percent this year and next, accounting for almost two-thirds of global growth. Despite a slight moderation, it said Asia remains the engine of global growth. While external demand remains sluggish, domestic demand continues to show resilience across most of the region, driven by low unemployment, growth in disposable income, lower commodities prices, and

macroeconomic stimulus, it added. “Of course, Asia is impacted by the still weak global recovery, and by the ongoing and necessary rebalancing in China,” said Changyong Rhee, director of the Asia and Pacific Department at the IMF. “But domestic demand has remained remarkably resilient throughout most of the region, supported by rising real incomes, especially in commodity importers, and supportive macroeconomic policies in many

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From the Front Page

(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 6-12, 2016

A

Binay, Roxas sign pact for honest…

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est practices. They also pledged to refrain from using guns, goons and gold. The senatorial candidates who signed the pact were Sen. Vicente Sotto III, former Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, former Interior Secretary Rafael Alunan 3rd, Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno, former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino, former Special Action Force chief Leo Napeñas, Susan Ople, Cresencio Paez, Pasig City (Metro Manila) Rep. Roman Romulo, Princess Jacel Kiram, former party-list Rep. Risa Hontiveros, former Moro Islamic Liberation Front spokesman Eid FREEDOM’S FULL MEAL. Ten Indonesian sailors who were freed by the Abu Sayyaf eat a hearty meal of fried chicken, fish and rice at the Kabalu, broadcaster Rey Langit, house of Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan II in this photo released to the Inquirer. The Philippine government on Monday, May 2 said it is glad that Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez and Diosdado Valeroso. the Indonesians kidnapped by the bandit group Abu Sayyaf are now free and safe after five weeks in captivity. The candidates promised to support and promote the right

Poe: Filipinos fed up with ‘straight path’…

PAGE A1 t kababayan. Kaya para sa ating mga kababayan, iniisip nila: ‘bakit niyo sinasabi na napakabuti ninyo kung kinakalimutan niyo naman kami?” (I have been criticizing this. We can see that the necessities of our countrymen are not prioritized. That’s why, for our our countrymen, they think, “why are you claiming that you are great when you are neglecting us?”) “Hindi ko naman sinasabing nakadirekta sa isang tao, kundi nakadirekta sa pamamalakad na parang, yun bang parang wala nang mabait kundi ‘yung iilan,” she said. (I am not referring directly to a single person but to the governance that it seems like there are only a few good people.) Poe made the remark when sought for comment on presidential frontrunner Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s reported statement that many people have embraced him because they hate the government’s purported inactions. At a campaign rally in Nueva Ecija on Monday, the senator also warned voters against electing a government that will promote violence, saying the poor will suffer from it. While she also dreams of quick solutions to long-time problems, Poe said she does not believe that killing would bring the peace and order people want. “Merong isa kasing kandidato na ang sinasabi tatapusin niya ng tatlo hanggang anim na buwan ang droga. Kahit naman ako, pangarap ko rin ‘yon. Walang masama doon kung talagang magagawa. Kaya lamang ito: Ang pamamaraan ay mali,” she said. (There is a candidate who says he would end illegal drugs in three to six months. I also have the same dream. There is nothing wrong with that if it could really be done. However, the way of doing that is wrong.) Poe was apparently referring to Duterte, who earlier promised to solve criminality in his first six months in office should he get elected President.

The senator said it was not right to give any group blanket power to just kill or kidnap suspected criminals without going through due process. Under this culture of impunity, she said, the poor are in a disadvantaged position. “Ang problema ang palaging napapagkamalan ay mahihirap. Pansinin ninyo, meron bang pinatay na mayaman doon sa lugar nila na nasuspetsahan ng droga, smuggling, o anupaman? Kaya kahit gusto natin ng mabilis na solusyon, gagawin ko pa ring mabilis ang solusyon pero naaayon sa proseso,” she said. (The problem is the poor are always blamed. If you would notice, has there been a rich person killed in their place for suspected engagement in drugs, smuggling or similar activities? That’s why although we want quick solutions, I would make quick solutions according to due process.) If she wins in the May 9 elections, Poe said she would push for the creation of a drug court to try only drug-related cases. This, she said, will declog the country’s criminal courts, which are saddled with thousands of unresolved cases. She said she would also strengthen the Public Attorney’s Office so that the poor can have access to free and competent legal services. “Bibigyan ko ang mga mahihirap ng magagaling na abogado. Magtatalaga ako ng magaling na

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Inquirer.net file photo

“Kaya kung tutuusin ang pagboto ay isang tungkulin na hindi lamang makabayan, kundi makadiyos dahil sa aking pagboto ako ay nakikilahok sa biyaya na binibigay sa atin na maging bahagi at magkaroon ng boses para sa ikabububuti ng ating lipunan [it could be said that voting is not just a patriotic duty, but a godly one, since by doing so, we participate in the grace given us to play a part in, and have a voice, in the betterment of our society],” the cardinal added. According to Tagle, voters have the responsibility to be discerning and analytical of the candidates. “Mag-aral, kumilatis, kumawala sa pagkakulong sa sarili at isipin ang kabutihan pangkahalatan [Study, discern and liberate yourself from your preoccupation with oneself, and think of the common good],” he said. n

BSP, AMLC deny leaking Digong bank…

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Presidential aspirant Senator Grace Poe.

of Filipinos to vote and advocate truthful, responsible, upright, transparent and honest elections. The agreement was signed after a Holy Mass officiated by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. Tagle called on voters to be discerning and to “choose the candidates who will be a representative for the common good.” The cardinal clarified that the Catholic Church will not endorse any candidate. “We won’t impose on who you should vote [for] because we want the flock to participate based on their intellect and conscience. We cannot preach participation and curtail the people’s right to act according to their intellect, rationally and with conscience,” he said. Tagle noted that the right to vote is a blessing that should not be wasted.

date, and Duterte, a presidential candidate. Trillanes earlier said that he did not get from the AMLC records of Duterte’s bank accounts, which showed transactions amounting to P2.4 billion from 2006 to 2015. He said the documents came from someone who got them from a relative working with an agency that was investigating illgotten wealth of public officials. Duterte first denied the existence of his bank account at the BPI branch on Julia Vargas Avenue in Pasig City but later ad-

mitted that it had less than P200 million. Amid the brouhaha over Duterte’s bank records, BSP’s Aquino assured “the Filipino people that the BSP and the AMLC are not engaged in partisan politics and will never allow themselves to be used as a tool for political persecution or harassment, or as an instrument to hamper competition in trade and commerce.” BPI mum Citing client confidentiality, Ayala-led BPI on Monday refused to further comment on Duterte’s bank accounts.

“[The] Bank of the Philippine Islands will not make any comment as regards this morning’s discussion involving prominent politicians at our Julia Vargas, Pasig City branch. To do so would be against the basic banking principles of client confidentiality,” BPI said in a statement. The bank said it was “committed to protecting client information and preserving the trust bestowed on us by our clients all these years.” BPI denied on Friday it was the source of information on bank accounts that Trillanes claimed

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A MAY 6-12, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

Filipino student among the winners of NASA’s design challenge ANOTHER talented Filipino has made waves internationally, as college student Jose Mari Tuason was among the awardees of the first Breakthrough, Innovative and Game-changing (BIG) Idea Challenge hosted by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) earlier this week. Tuason, together with his teammates from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, bested other competitors from top US colleges including Georgia Tech, The State University of New York at Buffalo and Purdue University, inside NASA’s Langley Research Center. Citing reports from The Filipino Times, the contest solicited innovative ideas which would help increase the lift-to-drag ratio of NASA’s inflatable spacecraft invention, the Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decel-

der. She was convincing him to allow his wife to bring their 4year-old son back to the US. Viane fled outside the country after the crime while the second suspect, Niño Dela Cruz, also a Fil-Am, was arrested by the Philippine National Police’s Special Action Force in Tondo, Manila, last August 12. Aika’s father Josar Mojica was in deep sorrow because of his

erator (HIAD). Tuason and his crew clinched victory after convincing a panel of space exploration experts with their flawless version on how to improve HIAD’s lifting capabilities on space stations. Led by their professor Zachery Putnam, the bright students left the judges in awe by demon-

strating a combination of moveable mass and cable system, which morphed the HIAD shape and provided it with direct lift control. Among those impressed by the groups’ feat was Acting Director of Game Changing Development (GCD) Program, Mary Wusk. n

daughter’s murder. Viane’s return in the country gave hope to the Mojica family that the case would push ahead. “It’s a good development that he has been brought here but his face is a painful reminder of my daughter’s death,” Josar Mojica said. Aika Mojica’s murder was linked to the custody battle between Viane and his estranged wife back in the United States.

Viane left the US and took their son to the Philippines which led to Mojica intervening in the issue. Viane is temporarily detained at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) office, as of this writing, while Dela Cruz has already been charged before the Zambales RTC Branch 71, and is now locked up at the Zambales Provincial Jail. (Ian Jamotillo / AJPress)

Judge orders Silicon Valley tech company to… PAGE A1 t

then paid them the same wages they earned in the Philippines, in pesos, ignoring legally required US wage rates. Some workers received as little as the equivalent of $1.66 per hour, in Philippine pesos, and received no overtime pay when they routinely worked an average of 57 hours per week. “The way these vulnerable, low-wage workers were treated by this employer is illegal, unethical, and unacceptable,” said Susana Blanco, director of the Wage and Hour Division office in San Francisco. “We will simply not tolerate employers bringing workers from Asia, or anywhere else, and failing to pay them every penny they have earned. We continue to see a pattern of US companies misusing foreign worker visas by bringing them from overseas and paying them in pesos or rupees. The resolution of this case demonstrates the division’s commit-

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

Jose Mari Tuason (pictured holding the certificate of recognition) poses for a photo together with his professor and teammates from the University of Illinois.

US extradites Fil-Am suspect in Olongapo…

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Dateline USa

ment to identifying and rectifying these situations and to using every enforcement tool available to us to do so.” The division also found that BiTMICRO violated the “hot goods” provisions of the FLSA by shipping goods produced by the Filipino employees in violation of wage laws out of state. The consent judgment, filed in US District Court for the Northern District of California, permanently enjoins the employer from future violations of the FLSA, and expressly prevents them from retaliating against any workers who assert their rights under the law. The judgment further requires the employer to provide all employees with a written notice of employee rights, and to keep electronic time records with the exact times when an employee starts and stops working. Founded in 1995, BiTMICRO is a publicly traded tech company

that develops, manufactures and deploys flash storage systems. Headquartered in Fremont, the company also has a subsidiary in the Philippines. Enforced by the division, the FLSA requires that covered, nonexempt workers be paid at least the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour for all hours worked, plus overtime at one and one-half times their regular wages for hours worked beyond 40 per week. Employers also must maintain accurate time and payroll records. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against workers who exercise their rights under the law. For more free and confidential information about federal wage laws administered by the division, call the agency’s tollfree helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). Information also is available at http://www.dol.gov/ whd. n

NEW YORK CONSUL GENERAL MARIO L. DE LEON, JR. HOSTS NETWORKING DINNER WITH MEMBERS OF THE FILIPINO INTERCOLLEGIATE NETWORKING DIALOGUE (FIND) AND 2nd GENERATION AT RESIDENCE. New York Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr. and Mdme. Eleanor De Leon host a networking dinner with members of the Filipino Intercollegiate Networking Dialogue (FIND) District 3 and 2nd Generation at their residence on Friday, 22 April 2016. In attendance were Filipino-American student associations from various institutions within the Tri-State region such as the College of Mt. St. Vincent, Fordham University, Montclair State University, and Rutgers University. Also present were representatives of the Pilipino American Unity for Progress (UniPro), New York Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees), and the Philippine Independence Day Committee, Inc. (PIDCI). Photo by Wendell Gaa

BSP, AMLC deny leaking Digong bank… PAGE A3 t

belonged to Duterte. Informant named At a news conference at the Magdalo headquarters in Quezon City after he met with Duterte representatives at the BPI Julia Vargas branch, Trillanes presented his signed affidavit that identified his informant. In the affidavit, he said he got information about Duterte’s “secret bank accounts” from a Joseph de Mesa whom he met on April 21 in his office. De Mesa “used to idolize” Duterte and withdrew his support “when he saw documents showing that Mayor Duterte maintained numerous bank accounts where hundreds of millions, if not billions of pesos, were deposited/transferred over the years,” he said. The senator said De Mesa got the documents “from a close relative who was working with an agency involved in investigating ill-gotten wealth of government officials.” De Mesa, he said, gave him copies of the documents showing the bank accounts in the name of Duterte and his daughter Sara at the BPI Julia Vargas branch and BPI Edsa Greenhills branch as well as the Banco de Oro Unibank in Mandaluyong City. He said in his affidavit that he vetted the information given to him and also compared them with Duterte’s statements on assets, liabilities and net worth. He said he executed the affidavit disclosing the identity of his informant so that there would be no more reason for the mayor’s camp not to issue a bank waiver and to “end this issue because I want the people to know what we know.” Face-off Earlier in the day, the muchawaited face-off between the camps of Duterte and Trillanes

FACE-OFF AT JULIA VARGAS. Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV arrives at the BPI branch on Julia Vargas Avenue in Pasig City to check on the deposits in a bank account of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. At right, Duterte’s lawyer Salvador Panelo shows the special power of attorney granting him the right to request and receive a certification from the bank. Inquirer.net photos by Marianne Bermudez

at BPI Julia Vargas where the presidential hopeful admittedly kept bank accounts drew throngs of supporters but went for naught, as no bank records were opened. Instead of a waiver, Duterte lawyer Salvador Panelo requested BPI to look into his client’s records and issue a certification that “at no time since the opening of the account has there been P211 million whether singly, collectively or cumulatively deposited to his bank account.” “What is important is when Trillanes challenged us to open the account, we accepted it. I have the power to open it and we requested the bank to do so,” Panelo said. Banks asks for 7 days The bank branch, however, asked for seven days to respond to the request of Duterte’s camp. Panelo said a bank official told him that the request had to be carefully studied since it was a joint account. Trillanes said after the meeting, Duterte’s camp had failed to issue a bank waiver even if he had given it an affidavit detailing how he obtained the

information on Duterte’s bank accounts. Panelo, however, said the special power of attorney (SPA) signed by Duterte granting him the power to request and receive a bank certificate from the bank was the waiver. “It is the bank waiver that Trillanes was asking,” the lawyer said over the phone. But the language in the SPA was specific. It allows Panelo to “request for and receive, from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), bank certificates for BPI Saving Account No. 24330695-39 to show the current balance as well as the fact that at no time since the opening of the aforesaid bank account was there a deposit either singly, or collectively of two hundred million pesos (P211 million).” Trillanes is accusing Duterte of having P227 million—not P211 million as earlier reported—in the BPI account. Asked about the discrepancy in the amount, Panelo said: “That is his problem, He is always changing his statements. That fact is Duterte’s account has no millions.” (With reports from DJ Yap and Gil C. Cabacungan)

West Point chapel returns San Pedro bell …

PAGE A2 t

On November 10, 2015, the pastor of St. Peter and Paul Church in Bauang wrote a letter to the Military Academy Superintendent, requesting the Academy to return the bell to its home in the Philippines. “Gen. Caslen read the letter and they conducted an investigation. Their historians verified this claim and the conclusion is that the bell belongs to the people of Bauang. He made a moral and ethical decision to return it,” explained Busa. “Now, the bell will be on its way home. We can very well call it our Balikbayan Bell.” Last January 28, 2016, Lieutenant General Robert Caslen, Jr. wrote back to Fr. Ronald Chan obliging his request. “I have a special interest because it is going back to the Diocese of San Fernando,” added Consul General de Leon, who added that his father is from the town of San Juan, the town after San Fernando. Bauang is part of the Diocese of San Fernando. Community Response “It is very heartwarming. I am so elated because this bell is going back to Bauang, which was our vacation place then. I didn’t want to miss this opportunity,” said Josephine Gopiao of the Philippine American Foundation for Charities (PAFC), an organization based in Northern Virginia. She joined a group of community leaders who drove from Washington, DC and Maryland to attend the bell’s sendoff. Members of the group sang ‘Bayan Ko’ after Busa delivered his speech. Filipino and some FilipinoAmerican cadets joined members of the community in the singing. “I am very happy that the bell is going back home, this is an important part of our history,” said Don Stanley Dalisay, one of only two Filipinos from the Philippines who are currently enrolled at West Point. “This highlights the strong relationship between the United

Workers unbolt the San Pedro bell from its base outside the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Chapel in West Point, New York. AJPress photos by Troi Santos

States and the Philippines especially considering our jaded history. We’ve fought against each other before, now we’re allies in the Asia Pacific region.” Dalisay comes from the town of Tingloy, Batangas. He is a junior cadet at West Point taking up economics and operations research. He spent a year as a plebe at the Philippine Military Academy as a part of the Gabay-Laya Class of 2016. “This bell (San Pedro) was incidental. The group is trying to get the Balangiga Bells back and that is why they have been communicating with me. Admiral McKinnon told me that he heard there’s another bell at West Point so he told me to look into it and do some research,” Dalisay explained. The group he was referring to is the group of Rear Admiral Dan

McKinnon, Dennis Wright and other U.S. Navy veterans who have been heavily involved in getting the Balangiga Bells of Samar back to the Philippines. The cadet went to the library to do his research but he stumbled on a dead end as there was nothing about San Pedro bell. West Point officials just took photos of the bell and sent it to the group and the Balangiga historian in Leyte, Dr. Rolando Borrinaga who was able to trace the origin of the bell and cross reference the Spanish inscription on the bell with records of parishes. Armed with that information, Father Chan of Sts. Peter and Paul wrote that letter to the US Military Academy Superintendent Robert Caslen. Almost six months have passed, and now the San Pedro bell is on its way back home. n

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Johns Hopkins symposium looks back on Aquino UP grad tops 2015 Bar, says she really just wanted to pass admin gains, reflects on PH in 2016 and beyond by Edu

Punay Philstar.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Esteemed members of the government, private sector, and the academe gathered at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) for a symposium entitled “Philippines 2016: Governance, Growth, Development and Security” on Thursday, April 28. Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, in his keynote address, described the Philippines’ path towards good governance, growth, and development as challenging, fulfilling, and dynamic, crediting the country’s economic transformation to the good governance program of the Aquino Administration and economic policies centered on inclusive growth. Ambassador Cuisia also cited the deepening Philippines-US relations along the defense and security, people-to-people and economic tracks as an avenue of continued cooperation for the next administration. “The Philippines is committed to be a proactive, reliable and responsible ally of the US, but more importantly, a strong Philippines is critical to the stability of South East Asia, and I do look forward to the Philippines continuing along its current path,” Ambassador Cuisia said. During the 1st panel on Governance, Growth and Development, Motoo Konishi, former World Bank Country Director for the Philippines emphasized the importance of addressing corruption and improving governance, protecting the population from climate change and environmental disasters and having peace in eliminating extreme poverty. The Aquino Administration has actively pursued these three objectives, according to Konishi. “Fighting poverty and eliminating poverty means that you have to know each poor, who they are and where they live, and your investments need to be targeted to those people. Fast growth doesn’t eliminate poverty, you have to choose your policies carefully,” Konishi said. “The Aquino Administration focused on pro-poor policies,”

Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. delivers his welcome address at the symposium entitled “Philippines 2016: Governance, Growth, Development and Security,” held at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) on 28 April 2016.

confidence that despite the challenges ahead, the Philippines will be able to sustain its growth and development largely because of the ground work that the Aquino administration has set in place. “The Aquino Administration has successfully put down deep and important roots for creating the conditions for (sustained) economic growth,” Bohn said. The second panel discussion on Security and Peace focused mainly on internal and external security challenges. Professor Zachary Abuza of the National War College described the modernization of the Philippine air force, military and marine forces, the deepening defense relations with the United States through the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), and Balikatan exercises as some of the major accomplishments of the Aquino Administration. However, peace and security challenges remain in Mindanao, one of which is the coercive capacities of political dynasties and political families through the use of private armies. “For any lasting peace to happen in Mindanao, you have to eliminate the private armies,” Professor Patricio Abinales of the University of Hawaii at Manoa said. Professor Abinales also linked the private armies with the pervasive presence of the illicit sector, stating that the presence of illicit trade in Mindanao cannot be weakened without first eliminating the private armies. “Unilateral naming doesn’t change the status of a territory, (L-R) Matthew Bohn of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, Gloria Steele of the U.S. Agency sea or land,” Professor Ruth for International Development (USAID), and Motoo Konishi of the World Bank are the speakers Wedgwood of Johns Hopkins SAIS said, switching the discusof the 1st panel on Governance, Growth and Development. sion from internal to external security challenges. Referring to the impending decision of the Arbitral Tribunal, Professor Wedgwood further stated that “China will be put in a very difficult position to defy it” considering the interest of ASEAN member countries in the case. The last part of the symposium was a keynote address delivered by Senator Richard Lugar, speaking on the hallmarks of the Aqui(L-R) Professor Ruth Wedgwood of Johns Hopkins University SAIS, Professor Patricio Abinales no Administration and the strong of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and Professor Zachary Abuza of the National War College ties between the Philippines and are the speakers of the 2nd panel on Peace and Security. the United States. n Konishi further added, stating that the Philippine experience will be a highlight of the World Bank’s flagship World Development Report this year. “The Filipino people are looking forward to more changes and to the continuation of reforms that the Aquino Administration started,” USAID’s Gloria Steele stressed, highlighting the accomplishments of the Aquino Administration in competitiveness, transparency, corruption, tourism, infrastructure, education, and health. “Growth needs to be geographically dispersed throughout the country,” Steele noted on what more needs to be done, citing improvements in airport infrastructure and quality energy regulations as the two components of growth that the next administration can improve and focus on. Matthew Bohn of the Millennium Challenge Corporation lauded the first compact with the Philippines, which supported poverty reduction, inclusive growth, and elimination of corruption, as being one of MCC’s best compacts. He also expressed

OFWs given more time to exchange old pesos for new

FILIPINOS living and working overseas who still have old peso bills in their possession will be given more time to exchange them for the new bank notes, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said. In a recent circular, the BSP said overseas Filipinos workers as well as local government treasurers, clerks of court and law enforcement agencies that would be geographically and legally constrained from personally exchanging New Design Series (NDS) bank notes with New Generation Currency (NGC) by Dec. 31 this year would still be accom-

modated beyond the deadline as long as they follow BSP procedures. In the case of overseas Filipinos, they must register their NDS bank note holdings on the BSP website between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31. The NDS bank notes that Filipinos abroad will register must then be exchanged with NGC bank notes within one year from the date of registration at any of the 23 BSP offices across the country that accept old bills for replacement. (Ben O. de Vera/ Inquirer.net)

MANILA—Rachel Angeli Miranda of the University of the Philippines topped last year’s Bar exams as UP placed three others in the top 10, the Supreme Court (SC) announced on Tuesday, May 3. A total of 1,731 law graduates passed the Bar exams, 26.21 percent of the examinees. More than 6,600 graduates completed the four-Sunday exams in November last year, according to SC 2015 Bar committee chair and Associate Justice Teresita Leonardo-de Castro. Last year’s Bar passers were 18.82 percent more than in 2014 when only 1,126 out of 5,984 passed the exams. Unlike in the two previous years, the SC did not lower the passing grade of 75 percent. De Castro said the passers would formally take their oath as new lawyers on June 16 at 2 p.m. at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). Miranda, with an average of 87.4 percent, admitted the results came as a surprise. “I never expected it. I did my best, I tried my best during the exams, but the result still came as a surprise. “I couldn’t believe it because what I was really hoping for was just to pass. I just wanted to pass, that’s it,” said Miranda, who also finished her undergraduate degree in UP Diliman as a scholar. Miranda revealed she and her batch mates barely had five months to review, having graduated in June 2015. “We were all pretty scared that we didn’t have enough time to prepare for it, but our professors kept telling us that we already had four years in

law school to prepare for this, that we shouldn’t be scared of passing, that we will pass. That helped me get through it,” she recalled. Three other graduates of UP Law made it to the top 10: Jayson Aguilar in third place with an average of 86.75 percent, Giselle Hernandez at sixth with 86.1 percent, and Jedd Brian Hernandez at ninth with 85.8 percent. The others in the top 10 are: Athena Plaza of University of San Carlos in Cebu in second place with 87.25 percent; Reginald Arceo of Ateneo de Manila University (fourth with 86.70 percent), Mandy Therese Anderson, also of Ateneo (fifth place with 86.15 percent), Darniel Bustamante of San Beda College-Manila at seventh with 85.9 percent; Jecca Jacildo of USC, Soraya Laut of Xavier University and Jericho Tiu of Ateneo, tied at eighth with 85.85 percent; and Ronel Buenaventura of Bulacan State University and Lara Carmela Fernando of San Beda College-Manila, 10th place with 85.75 percent. Meanwhile, Te has announced the SC is considering proposals to reform the Bar examinations, including reducing the number of subjects and possible regionalization. The proposals, which include automating the process of Bar applications and digitization of the lawyers’ list within the framework of the Judiciary’s Enterprise Information Systems Plan (EISP), came from deans of law schools who are regularly consulted by the high court. “There is, as yet, no final decision by the Court on this matter. However, the chair of the 2016 Bar examinations, Justice Velasco, has already met with the law school deans and any

Bar passers hug each other after the Supreme Court released the list of successful examinees. A graduate of the University of the Philippines topped the 2015 Bar examinations with a grade of 87.40 percent. ManilaTimes.net photo by Mary Rose Piano

changes will be announced in due course,” he revealed. In last year’s Bar, the examinees were again required to use transparent or see-through bags “to further ensure the safety and security of the examinees and Bar personnel.” Additional security measures were put in place since the grenade explosion that marred the September 2010 Bar exams at De La Salle University in Manila. The exams have since been moved to the University of Santo Tomas. In the 2013 Bar exams, the SC reverted back to its previous format, which was predominantly essay-type. They consist of 80 percent essay-type questions and 20 percent multiplechoice questions. Bar exams had multiple choice format in the two previous years. The high court also lifted its five-strike rule in Bar examinations, a policy first implemented in 2005 in which examinees who flunked five times were disqualified from further taking the exams. n

Overseas absentee voting turnout now over 200,000 HTe voter turnout of overseas absentee voters (OAVs) currently stands at 222,982 on day 21 of open voting, still over one million votes short of the 1,376,067 registered Filipinos living and working abroad. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) undersecretary for special concerns Rafael Seguis said the number is an improvement, but is still not too encouraging. “Hopefully, by May 9, the last day of the overseas voting

period, we expect the figure to exceed 500,000. This would double the highest voter turnout that was set during 2004 elections,” he said. “During the past registration period, we practically doubled the previous record high and now we are about to double the previous record high voting,” he added. Since the 2004 election, the OAV turnout has been both up, and down.

As of April 30, the current voter tally stands substantially higher than previously recorded in 2010 at 88,713 votes on day 21. The greatest OAV turnout so far is from the Middle East, followed closely by the Asia-Pacific region. Seguis said the largest overseas Filipino population is based in North America, followed by the Middle East. (Aimee Shaw/ Philstar.com)

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IMF: PH to be fastest-growing ASEAN… PAGE A2 t countries,” he added. Facing risks However, IMF stressed that the region faces a number of external challenges, including slow growth in advanced economies, a broad slowdown across emerging markets, weak global trade, persistently low commodity prices, and increasingly volatile global financial markets. These risks compound domestic vulnerabilities, such as high debt incurred in recent years. In the short term, Chi-

na’s transition to a new growth model will disrupt its regional partners, especially those heavily exposed to the region’s biggest economy. Geopolitical tensions and domestic policy uncertainty add risks of potential trade disruptions or lower domestic demand, it also said. Natural disasters, too, can reverse economic gains, particularly in lower-income countries and small states, including many Pacific islands. Small states also face the challenge of reduced fi-

nancial services by global banks or “de-risking” which could hold back financial inclusion and growth. The report also recognizes, however, that the outcome could turn out more positive than forecast. Low commodity prices could be a bigger boost to the region’s economies than expected; and regional and multilateral trade agreements, such as the TransPacific Partnership, could benefit Asia-Pacific even before they are ratified, it said. n

Ang Pangarap Niyo Ay Pangarap Namin.

Poe: Filipinos fed up with ‘straight path’… PAGE A3 t

pulis sa bawat rehiyon. At ‘pag hindi bumaba ang datos ng krimen at droga, hindi ako maghihintay ng dalawang araw, ako mismo tatanggalin ko ‘yung provincial police para mapalitan ng gumagawa ng trabaho,” she said. (I will provide competent lawyers to the poor. I will assign ef-

ficient police to each region. And if crime and drug rates don’t go down, I won’t wait for two days, I will fire the provincial police so he could be replaced immediately.) Poe said the appointment of local police chiefs must not be politicized to ensure that the Philippine National Police (PNP) force across the country will be

impartial. “Hindi pwedeng political ang appointment ng pulis. Kailangan ang pulis ay nagtatrabaho para sa inyo dahil naniniwala ako na ang tao ay hindi dapat matakot sa gobyerno. Ang gobyerno ang dapat matakot sa inyo ‘pag hindi namin ginagawa ang aming trabaho,” she further said. n

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Public interest

THESE last few days leading up to May 9—the Philippine national elections—are critical. This moment is intense as aspiring leaders are rushing to mount campaigns that will boost in public support, which in turn, they hope will manifest in actual votes. For Filipino voters, this moment is a chance for them to relish the power they have and take this exercise with tenacity and good cheer. The Filipinos’ support is essential to any leader. They are after all, the ones who get someone into office, and whom leaders are representing. On the other hand, an elected leader plays a central role in every Filipino’s life. He or she shapes the system, makes crucial decisions, and represents the hopes and interests of every Filipino. On Monday, May 2, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle gathered candidates for national positions during a Mass at the Manila Cathedral where he also made them sign the covenant for Truthful, Responsible, Upright, Transparent & Honest (TRUTH) elections. In his homily, Tagle urged the political aspirants to evaluate what the real needs of the people are and to do everything in their powers to foster better and safer communities in the country. “In being candidates, you need to know that it is a blessing that comes with a responsibility. If you win, it means you must represent the people’s dreams and common good,” Tagle said. Meanwhile, Cardinal Orlando Quevedo on Tuesday, May 3, reminded Filipino vot-

ers to “not to be mesmerized” by promises of “change” by candidates seeking the country’s top post. He said that what the country needs is a “radical” and “profound” change in mind, behavior and values. Quevedo urged voters to throw their support for the candidates who have an option for the poor and those with moral integrity or someone “that is not tainted by corruption, unexplained wealth, and properties, and enrichment in office.” He encouraged them to choose a leader who is competent to govern 100 million Filipinos and lead them to a better life. Filipinos have signaled an inclination for a progressive, ideal government—a system that is committed to the common good, shared and personal responsibility, and one that finds opportunity for everyone. Next week, we will see if election results will usher in a new presidency that would mark a significant change in the country’s political landscape. Until then, may voters ruminate on who they think will be a good leader before casting their votes. May they choose an inspiring leader who will stand for the highest values and ideals of every Filipino—all 100 million of them. (AJPress)

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

With Roxas and Robredo surging in polls, can Duterte’s lead be overtaken? DAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte may have had the most challenging week of his campaign, just a week before the all-important presidential election in the Philippines, following allegations made by VP candidate Sen. Antonio Trillanes. Trillanes alleged that the Philippine presidential front-runner has multiple bank accounts with millions of pesos not declared in his Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN). This allegation of corruption and many other attacks on Duterte’s character have been branded as black propaganda by the Duterte camp and his followers, alleging that his opponents are so desper-

killed people and is ate to pull him down afwilling to kill more ter his dominance in the The Fil-Am to get things done recent polls all over the Perspective as his approach to country. governance; his cursBut as some say, all ing the popular Pope is fair game in politics, Francis; his blatant especially when a canunapologetic and didate has given his Gel SantoS-ReloS even bragging statedetractors ammunitions to fire back at him. Duterte has been ment that he is a womanizer; the allecriticized over many issues like his rape gations that he has ghost employees; statement wen he said he, the mayor, his reported statements that if elected, should have been the first one to rape the he will release former Pres. Gloria Arroyo; that he will allow deposed dictator murdered Australian. Then there were more among many Ferdinand Marcos be buried in Libinothers: his own words admitting he has gan ng mga Bayani; and that he will let

Bongbong Marcos take over if he fails to resolve crimes in the first three months of his presidency. Just this past week, something has been happening in the polls. From placing fourth below Duterte, Poe and Binay, we see the rise of DILG Sec. Mar Roxas in surveys, especially following the last debate hosted by ABS-CBN. In the Pulse Asia survey for the period April 26-29, Duterte may have stayed at top place at 33 percent, unchanged from the April 19-24 survey, but Roxas has climbed up to second place with 22 percent, a 2 percent rise from the previous poll.

The D’ Strafford Research and Strategies Poll for the period April 25-29 could be more problematic for Duterte. It showed Roxas on top with 27.8 percent, followed by Duterte with 25.4 percent. If this trend continues, could Roxas pull an upset on May 9, and be elected president? ABANGAN! *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Black propaganda in Philippine politics

From The Stands Domini m. toRRevillaS POLITICAL jousts in this country are eternally exciting, entertaining, somehow also enlightening and, from the point of view of those who become objects of vicious black propaganda attacks, absolutely infuriating. Remember the malicious tag of “Brenda” hurled against a leading presidential candidate a few years ago that was intended to put her mental faculty in serious doubt? Or the cruel calumny of being gay which was attached to a former senator? The current political campaign has not been wanting in this diabolic practice. And while some of the charges and accusations against some political personalities appear to have credible basis, many others are obviously nothing but malevolent character assassination. It is, therefore, up to the voters and the public at large to distinguish those that are truthful and those that are wicked lies. Among those who became open targets of very serious accusations are Vice President Jejomar Binay for alleged plunder related to the construction of a building and a school and the purchase of hospital beds and facilities. Senator Santiago has denounced continuing innuendos about the state of her health, and asserts that she has successfully licked the lung cancer that she herself admitted, had afflicted her. Senator Grace Poe is still be-

(L-R) Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay, Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, Sen. Grace Poe and former DILG Sec. Mar Roxas

sieged with insinuations that she is actually the offspring of an illicit relationship between a former President and a former actress. This, aside from persistent issues about her Filipino citizenship. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is hard put in parrying charges of hiding enormous wealth in several secret bank accounts with transactions amounting to P1.2 billion. Earlier, he had to face the fury of an enraged public offended by his lewd “joke” that he should have been the first to ravish a pretty Australian missionary who was sexually brutalized by several inmates in a Davao City jail who then slashed her throat. Mar Roxas, with his concededly spotless record of public service was not spared from the malicious insinuation fired by the Davao Mayor that he is “bayot” (gay) and that he is weighed down by an indecisive character that has given rise to his supposed “teka, teka” attitude even when confronted by critical situations. Expectedly, it is Senator Bongbong Marcos who is getting the

brunt of brickbats among the vice presidential candidates. But you know when black propaganda gets completely out of hand? It’s when a simple, unassuming, softspoken, self-effacing Leni Robredo becomes the target of outrageous claims meant to tarnish her reputation. Initially, she was said to have received P500 million from the Liberal Party just to agree to be the party’s vice presidential candidate and running mate of Mar Roxas. After this failed to gain traction, an absurd story accusing her of buying a luxurious bed with a stratospheric price of P700,000 was peddled! Obviously, this is intended to besmirch her public image as a simple-living widow who leads a nearly austere existence. There was even the dastardly attempt to put to ridicule her very act of riding a public bus in going home every weekend to Naga City after attending to her Congressional duties. The canard being passed off as immaculate truth is that she or her family owns the public buses that she takes in going home to the province. Now that she has surged in the

ratings, even more accusations are coming out of the woodwork: illegal donations, patronage politics, and other easily-refutable issues. I suppose that the Filipino saying really holds true: Ang pinakamabungang puno ay ang pinaka madalas binabato. ** * ON ANOTHER FRONT, surveys or no surveys, the political stalwarts of Pangasinan are convinced that Mar Roxas will be the “flavor of May.” That is the conviction of Rep. Gina de Venecia of Pangasinan’s 4th District. She believes that Mar Roxas has the support of the silent majority. “The surveys do not reflect what I see on the ground. I know this because I meet them on my daily visits to the public markets in the whole province.” For months now, Manay Gina has been actively campaigning for Mar and Leni Robredo in Pangasinan, which is the 3rd voterich province in the country, with 1,705,260 registered voters. Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil of the 2nd District also agreed, adding, “Mar Roxas is the best among the rest. His outstanding performance in various agencies, vast experience, track record and brilliance make him the best option for our country.” This claim was made more evident by the massive showing of Roxas supporters when he arrived in Dagupan City, for the last presidential debate. Roxas supporters gave him a ”yellow-carpet” welcome when he arrived in Dagupan City. He was escorted to the debate venue by hundreds of bikers as thousands

of supporters, garbed in Mar-Leni yellow, lined up on both sides of the street, waving matching yellow flaglets. When Mar reached the venue, an overflowing crowd of loyal supporters welcomed him with a marching band playing his campaign jingle. Visibly moved, Roxas came out of his vehicle and greeted his enthusiastic supporters amid a shower of yellow confetti. It was a campaign moment for Mar! Some 6,000 of his supporters later convened in two viewing venues to watch the debate. In addition to Reps. De Venecia and Bataoil, Roxas also enjoys the unwavering support of Rep. Baby Arenas of the 3rd District, Rep. Marlyn Agabas of the 6th District, Mayor Belen Fernandez of Dagupan City and Mayor Bobom Perez of Urdaneta City. Dagupan is the number one vote rich city in Pangasinan with 105,183 voters, Urdaneta, the 3rd vote-rich with, 76,296 voters and San Carlos City under Rep. Arenas, the second vote-rich city with 96,875 registered voters. ** * I had the opportunity to listen to Cong. Roberto C. Mascarina talk about the Ating-Koop Party List at the Nation’s Leaders Forum sponsored by the Capitol Christian Leadership held at the Faith Baptist Church Social Hall in Quezon City last week. The first nominee of Ating –Koop Party List, “Ka Bert,” as he is popularly called, is a true-blooded cooperator after almost 27 years of success of Barangka Credit Cooperation which he founded with his fellow cooperators from the Universal Textile

Mills, Inc. in 1986. Ka Bert stopped studying at the University of Santos to work at the textile mills to support his family, and sleeping under a creek near the construction site. His salary could not sustain his family and personal needs. By God’s grace, he found an answer out of his predicament. He organized a cooperative (otherwise called credit union), which helped him and his cooperators save and earn money, thus avoiding the wild interest rates charged by 5-6 creditors. Today his coop has hundreds of members throughout the country, enjoying the benefits of medical care, loans (which they pay regularly), education for their children, among others. Let’s vote for this party list. About Capitol Christian Leadership, this was founded by the late journalist Leon O. Ty and Dr. Gregorio J. Tingson, and currently has former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno as honorary chair and Rev. Jose Lagunsad Gonzales as chair. Other officers are Bishop Juan S. Pring, Aida P. dela Cruz, Jean M. Puno, Perla Agustin, the Ildefonso J. Remolona, Atty. David D. Aguila, Gilda U. Delegencia, and Ptr. Leo S. Salibio. CCL is observing its 48th year of existence, with the theme “Building a Godly Nation.” Its mantra is, “Righteousness exalts a Nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). Every Tuesday, it holds a forum featuring respected personalities, from government to private individuals. For the May 9 elections, it has sponsored vicepresidential and local candidates. (Philstar.com)

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 6-12, 2016

A

Dateline PhiliPPines

Aquino: No one is indispensable in government by AureA CAliCA And Aimee ShAw Philstar.com

MANILA — Less than a week before Filipinos elect a new chief executive, President Aquino reminded people that nobody is indispensable in government. “Sometimes there are still those who tell me, ‘you should have sought reelection.’ I said, ‘that’s not in the Constitution.’ ‘You should have extended even just for three years.’ I said: ‘That seems difficult,’” Aquino said in a meeting with local leaders and residents in Tuguegarao City on Monday, May 2. “Isn’t it that no matter how great (an official is), that will not be good for us? What’s happening in the country is important. Let’s continue it. Whoever is sitting here,” the President added, referring to his administration’s “straight path” policy and democratic processes. Without naming names, Aquino cited the case of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, who had two terms and extended his stint in Malacañang for 13 years by declaring martial law, staying in power for a total of 21 years. Aquino reminded people that during martial law, Marcos confined the powers of the state to himself. The President also took a swipe at opposition presidential candidate Vice President Jejomar Binay, whose three children were also in different positions. Binay’s only son and namesake was a dismissed Makati City mayor, his daughter Nancy is senator and his daughter Abigail is the representative of Makati City. Abigail is seeking to replace Binay Jr. while her husband is gunning for her position in Congress. The Vice President also served as mayor of Makati City for a long time and was replaced only by his wife when his third consecutive term ended. His son then took over when he became old enough to replace his parents as mayor. In jest, the President said if Binay and his family stay in office for 21 years each just like Marcos, that would be 84 years of a single family leading the country. Aquino noted that it would be painful for the people to commit a mistake because what had been achieved under a democracy might be reversed.

Presidential aspirant Sen. Miriam Defensor- Santiago

President Benigno Aquino III

“They might take us to turn, left, right. The worst: bring us back to the past, U-turn. We don’t want a left turn… a right turn, most especially we don’t want a U-turn. Is that right?” he said. The President called on the people to think and choose carefully because nobody would want to end up regretting the outcome of the elections. “Why the need to weep by making a mistake? Molding the future is in our hands. My vote is only one… the majority decides for everyone. We must keep on multiplying until the last day of the campaign. Let us not stop,” Aquino said, referring to the supporters of the Koalisyon ng Daang Matuwid led by presidential candidate Manuel Roxas II and his runningmate Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo. “If we do that, the next generation will look at us with a smile. They will tell us: thank you,” Aquino said. In 2010, Aquino said his political opponents vowed to derail his victory by all means, but the people’s will prevailed despite the “anybody but me” mantra against him. The President was in Cagayan to inaugurate the Pamplona Bridge and campaign for administration candidates. Aquino highlighted the positive results of good governance or the straight path. He said over the past six years, the national government allocated P17.04 billion for infrastructure projects throughout Cagayan province, a steep gain in comparison to the P3.79 billion between 2005 to 2010. The P639.8-million Pamplona

Palace mourns passing of ex-Foreign Secretary Siazon by KriStine

Angeli Inquirer.net

SAbillo

MALACAÑANG is mourning the death of former Foreign Affairs Secretary Domingo Siazon. “We pause in tribute to Domingo Siazon, former secretary of foreign affairs (1995-2001) and Philippine ambassador to Japan (1993-1995 and 2001-2010),” presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement on Wednesday, May 4. “Respected by his colleagues in the foreign service, his peers abroad, and by presidents and the public alike, he belonged to the second generation of career diplomats who served with professionalism and who rose according to merit,” he added. Lacierda called Siazon, who served under former President Joseph Estrada’s Cabinet, “a cultured, urbane man.” He said the secretary left behind a record of “distinguished service” to the country and that he had brought honor to the Philippine

Former Foreign Affairs Sec. Domingo Siazon

flag wherever he served. “We extend deepest sympathies to his family at this time of profound loss,” Lacierda said. Siazon’s son Dan posted on Facebook early Wednesday that his 77-year-old father had passed away. He said his father was a “statesman, career diplomat, but more importantly, a loving husband, father and grandfather.” n

I’m not giving up, says Poe by JefferSon

AntipordA ManilaTimes.net

LUCENA City, Quezon — Senator Grace Poe’s determination to win the presidential race remains strong despite the huge lead of Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte in a recent pre-election survey. “Hindi ako sumusuko sa gitna ng lahat ng mga pagsubok, at higit sa lahat, hindi ko kinakalimutan bakit ako tumatakbo. Kailangan natin ng makataong pagbabago [I’m not giving up amid the challenges but most of all I will not forget the reason why I am running. We need a civilized change],” Poe said. She reiterated that she respects the surveys because it gives her the energy and resolve to work harder and match the machinery of her rivals. What is important, the senator said, is that she is running her campaign without defaming or discrediting the other presidential aspirants. “I have never been involved in black propaganda against my opponents and just focused my energy in reaching out to the people,” she added.

Po, however, said surveys do not necessarily reflect results of elections. She cited the 2004 balloting wherein exit polls conducted on the day of the elections showed that her father, Fernando Poe Jr., lost in the National Capital Region (NCR or Metro Manila) but after the votes were counted, it turned out that he won by a huge margin against his opponent, then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. In the 2010 national elections, the senator noted that then-Makati City (Metro Manila) Mayor Jejomar Binay was 10 points behind then-Sen. Manuel Roxas 2nd in the vice presidential survey several days before the polls but, in the end, Roxas was defeated by Binay. “This only shows that we can’t say who will win until the day of the elections,” Poe said. The senator admitted that she has been receiving information about the efforts of one of her opponents to manipulate the surveys to condition the minds of voters and make it appear that he has a big chance of winning. She said the candidate even commissioned a survey showing that he is leading. n

Bridge has been under construction since February 2013 and replaced the 50-year-old highway bridge connecting Cagayan Valley to the Ilocos region and Cordillera Administrative Region. The new 489.9-linear meter bridge is expected to provide better transport facility between regions. Aquino said he would not relax as election day nears and that he was happy to read about Filipinos becoming hopeful about the country compared to their past apathy. He had been saying that indifference, instead of just anger, was a result of hopelessness. More than programs and projects, Aquino reiterated the Filipinos’ change in attitude would be his biggest legacy. n

Miriam Santiago: ‘Daang matuwid’ is the ultimate frustration of Filipinos by frAnCeS

mAngoSing Inquirer.net

WITH a few days to the 2016 elections, presidential aspirant Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago lashed out at the Aquino administration for the first time in her campaign. “The righteous path that the administration has campaigned on in 2010 turned out to be the ultimate frustration of the Filipino people,” she told the crowd of mostly students and faculty at the University of Santo Tomas on Thursday. “Pinangakuan tayo ng matuwid na daan, anong matuwid eh papuntang UST ang traffic ang

bigat-bigat. (They promised us the straight path. How straight [straight could that be] if there’s heavy traffic leading to UST),” she said as the audience cheered and shouts filled the gymnasium. “The administration has failed to implement many reforms to curb corruption. These include the Freedom of Information Bill or Law, which I strongly supported in the Senate, and the AntiPremature Campaigning Law,” she added. In an interview with reporters after her speech, she accused the administration in manipulating the results of commercial surveys. “Si Bongbong matagal naging

number one sa vice presidential surveys. Ngayon malapit na ang halalan biglang na overtake ng kandidato ng administrasyon. (Bongbong has been number one in the vice presidential surveys for a long time. Now that the elections are near, he’s overtaken by the administration candidate),” she said, referring to Liberal party vice presidential candidate Leni Robredo. Senator Bongbong Marcos is Santiago’s running mate. “Kaya ang mga minds ng ating botante [That’s why the minds of our voters] have been manipulated by these commercial surveys may be paid in hard cash,” she added.

A MAY 6-12, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY M AY 6 , 20 1 6

The firsT of everyThing: firsT-Time moThers share Their joys and challenges by

Malou liwanag-bledsoe and MoMar g. Visaya AJPress

OF the joys and challenges women face in life, none is more extraordinary than having their first baby. From the moment they find out about the pregnancy to the day they give birth, women will experience many changes and learn new ways to take care of their life and their growing baby. In this Mother’s Day special feature, we asked a few first-time mothers about their experiences, emotions and how they deal with their life now with their first born. “I have always wanted to be a mom. So for me, it was a dream come true. I’ve always loved being around kids and taking care of them, but it’s true what they say that the feeling is different when you have your own child.” - Mae Ermita-Manubay, mother of Mason Manubay (born November 10, 2015) As a person, Mae ErmitaManubay likes to be organized and on time for everything. This is a must for her life, especially in her work as an assistant to the Deputy Consul General at the Philippine Consulate in New York. However after giving birth to her son, Mason, she realized that she has to let things go. “Time is no longer my friend. I feel like it goes by so fast. In the beginning we (with husband, Robby) found ourselves late for everything until I realized that I just have to give myself an extra hour (or two) to get everything ready before we’re out the door just to make it on time for an event,” she said. “I also had to accept that baby things will take over the house no matter how organized you try to be. Sleep will be a thing of the past, but I’m thankful that I have a supportive husband who takes turns with me during night shifts. Every minute counts! At the end of the day, no matter how sleep deprived, how unorganized you get, or how time will sometimes get the best of you, just seeing Mason smile and knowing that he’s happy is all worth it.” Yes, Mae reaffirms that her perspective on life has changed, as everything now revolves around her family, especially Mason. She does acknowledge the same challenges first-time moms go through — the lack of sleep, getting ready, traveling with their son and planning for the future. “Cutting down on expenses to prepare for the future is important. Budgeting has definitely changed in terms of buying more thing I need as oppose to more things I want,” she said. Although no amount of preparation will be enough, Mae believes that some sort of plan will help new and future moms after their baby is born. “Have a plan for childcare. Be prepared! It can get expensive if you don’t have family to help,” she shared and added, “Read/sing to your baby! it’s [a] great bonding time. Record your milestones, take

Mae Ermita-Manubay with baby Mason

all the pictures you want.” Lastly, she also would like to impress the importance of keeping a healthy marriage. “Still go out and have a date with the hubby. You’ll feel guilty at first but it’s important to continue to nourish your relationship as a couple as well!” “Honestly, I still can’t believe that I brought this human life out into the world. Yes, there are sleepless night and it gets tough sometimes…but when I see her smile at me, it’s all worth it.” - Luchelle del RosarioTartaglia, mother of Luana Alessandra Tartaglia (born September 29, 2015) Motherhood has changed Luchelle del Rosario-Tartaglia, a Risk Management director for a banking institution in New York. Her perspective in life was directed into wanting to do better for her daughter, Luana. “Motherhood gave me a different perspective in life,” she shared. “I want to be a better person for her and be a good role model. I think more about the future and how we can better provide for her, be there for her always so both Luigi and I started eating healthier so we can live longer and be active so we can play with her and run after her.” She admits she has become extra careful on her decisions in life - whether it is driving above speed limit or investing because she has her daughter and the family in mind and to consider. She also thinks more about Luana’s welfare and always considers her first before making any plans or decisions. “In addition, there’s more of an effort for me to achieve work life balance. My priority now is my family and I put Luana’s needs first before mine. If I need to take off work or leave work early because she needs me I’ll do it but at the same time I learn to work around her schedule to get things or work done,” Luchelle shared. Like most mothers, she had difficulties in producing enough breast milk for her child. In fact, when the pediatrician said that Luana (who had jaundice when she was born) was dehydrated, Luchelle cried non-stop for 10-15 minutes. Still, she saw this hurdle as

Luchelle Del Rosario- Tartaglia with baby Luana

part of learning, along with other challenges. Luchelle shares this advice to fellow first-time mothers: “ patient. There would be days that you feel like you can’t survive but you will and things will get better. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your partner, family or friends if you feel like you need a break because you deserve to have a break. Discussing and sharing your feelings or thoughts with your partner or family/friends help a lot too. You don’t have to do things alone. Also, sleep as much as you can whenever you get the chance.” “Holding her for the very first time was when I knew that life was going to be so much brighter and happier.” - Aileen B. Castañeda, mother to Sophie Nicola Castañeda (born March 3, 2016)

Marie Nitro-Puzon with baby Aldrei Mateusz

The origins of Mother’s Day & how Filipinos celebrate saying: “Ang ina, isusubo na nga lang, ibibigay pa sa anak,” which means “even with the women how to properly care food all ready for her to confor their children. these clubs sume, the Mother will always later became a unifying force find the need to still give every in a region of the country still last morsel to her children.” divided over the Civil War. having a dedicated day to In the Us and Philippines mothers is no surprise, espeon the second sunday in May, cially in Filipino culture wherein Mother’s Day is a time when motherhood is a revered role. children and fathers both Filipinos tend to have tight-knit spend a day pampering and families, so it is common for showering mothers with presMother’s Day to also include ents, as a sign of gratefulness grandmothers, aunts, cousins, for all that they have done for and other women in the family the family. who are also mothers. Mothers in the Philippines Children often make cards go by various titles: Ina, Nanay, or drawings for their mothMama, and Mommy, to name ers, with some even bringing just a few. Mothers are recognized as the “ilaw ng tahanan,” breakfast to mom in bed. which is translated to the “light Fathers, on the other hand, generally give their wives a of the home.” this Filipino present they have been asking expression serves to describe for, or a trip to the spa for a mothers as the light who day of relaxation. Celebrations brings warmth and comfort to her family by caring for them in for this day usually consist of treating the moms to lunch at the best way possible, sometheir favorite restaurant. the times even putting aside her own happiness and well-being rest of the day is usually spent with the family in the malls or just to do so. this material wherever the mothers want to sacrifice is also highlighted go. in another popular Filipino

“[My] mom told me that when you are tired, it’s ok to ask for help so that you can rest. “My mom is a woman of prayer. She tells me that despite those fatigued moments from diaper change and long nursing sessions, I still and should find time for prayer, seek help, ask for blessings and to guide me through motherhood,” she said. “I am teaching my son to pray and call on God to bless him and the people around him. I want him to be God-fearing, morally upright and a responsible man.” “Your child does not need the latest of most expensive toys/ Aileen Castañeda with baby Sophia Nicola clothes to be happy and healthy, Aileen said she was they only need your love and overwhelmed with mixed your attention.” emotions when the labor and - Marge Maceda, mother to delivery nurse informed her that Maktan Maceda (born March Marge Maceda with baby Maktan she was going to be admitted. 2015) “I was very happy that I would - Maria Lourdes Nitro-Puzon, When asked what they felt be meeting our baby girl soon. It mother to Aldrei Mateusz Puzon when their child first came out, was exciting since I was exactly (born September 16, 2015) Marge Maceda said, “Sobrang 40 weeks into pregnancy—baby For Maria Lourdes or Marie saya at takot, mga magulang na was very punctual because she Nitro-Puzon, nothing could kami (Overwhelming joy and fear, decided to come out her exact really have prepared her and [because] we are now parents!” due date,” she said then added, “I her husband, Aldrin, to see their Just like any other first-time was also very scared since being son come out of this world. The mother, Marge shared that not a first time Mom, everything was couple had been through years of getting enough sleep is one of all new to me. I did not know trying to have a child. the major challenges she faced what to expect and did not know “It was just overwhelming. It especially during the first few how painful labor was going to was the most surreal experience,” days. Still, this does not stop her be. I had my husband (Ryan) with she shared. “[I} still couldn’t from doing everything so that her me the whole time and he was a believe that I was able to push son, Maktan, gets everything he very good coach throughout the that baby out of me. My husband needs to be healthy and happy. process, so I knew everything was and I were tearful for a moment, Marge also looks to her going to be okay.” then we posed for the picture to own mother in raising Maktan. Apart from the usual paranoia have our first family photo and we Through her mother’s actions, new mothers have such as not were all smiles.” she shared that materials things producing enough breast milk As a nurse working at a are secondary in making your and not knowing what the baby government birthing facility children happy. What’s important needs when it cries is the fear of in Makati City, Philippines, is giving your love and attention failing to become the best mom Marie does counseling about to them. to Sophie. breastfeediing with mothers. “When she was in my tummy, “I wanted to be prepared— Ironically, it was the same thing I have been longing to hold, hug, read books, went to birthing that she faced during the first days smell, and kiss her. She finally classes, stocked up her nursery so after Aldrei was born. arrived. It was so surreal.” there would not be any surprises, “I did not know that it was - Nina Berroya-Carlos, I even downloaded some apps so going to be that painful until mother to Andi Mireille Carlos I can be reminded when the next I experienced it myself. I was (born March 7, 2016) feeding will be and for how long!,” struggling during the first few Overwhelmed with happiness, Aileen shared. “But at the end of days, feeling pained and lacking Nina Berroya-Carlos and husband the day, it was what it was, just a sleep; as it was a round-theDino Carlos were finally holding preparation. I did not know what clock job,” she shared. “It was their first-born, Andi. And just the future holds, I knew there discouraging as I was producing like any other first-time mother, would be challenges ahead but very little milk at first. I almost she went through the challenges, I have my husband, family and thought of giving up, but I can’t. I such as breastfeeding and friends willing to support and do just continued breastfeeding and balancing their time. anything and everything. That my milk supply increased.” “Even I want to purely support and assurance alone With the difficulties in breastfeed Andi, I cannot [do it] helped overcome any first time breastfeeding, being sleep since I do not have enough milk. I mother fears.” deprived and tired; Marie always still try by diligently doing breast She takes cue from her reminds her of her mother’s pump,” she shared. Nina added hardworking mother to become advice. they struggle at times trying to a better mom to Sophie. With understand Andi’s needs and this, she only has one wish for her wants as a newborn. Also, getting daughter. ready is a balancing act. “There will come a time when “We need to allot more time she will face her own challenges in dressing up since we need to in life. I wish she can embrace and prepare [about] Andi too,” she be passionate of the good values said. my husband and I will instill in her. I Still, she sees Andi as a hope that she will decide and choose blessing and only wants the best her paths based on those values. “ for her. “I was full of gratitude, and “I wish that she may I said my prayer of thanks to continuously to grow healthy,” God, that after more than five Nina said and then added, “I years of wishing and praying for also wish that she grows to be a child we have now received kind, smart, responsible, patient, His blessing, as we have now my obedient, diligent [and a] GodNina Berroya-Carlos with baby Andi Mireille child in my arms.” fearing woman.”

even the most intelligent, beautiful and successful people in the world needed their mothers. here are few famous quotes about mothers:

by Charisse Trinidad / AJPress Mother’s Day is observed in different forms throughout the world. the American existence of Mother’s Day was created by Anna reeves Jarvis in 1908 and became an official U.s. holiday in 1914. While dates and celebrations may differ, Mother’s Day most often falls on the second sunday in May and traditionally involves presenting mothers with flowers, cards and other gifts. Celebrations of mothers can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and romans, who held festivals in honor of the mother goddesses rhea and Cybele. however, the most modern version of Mother’s Day is the early Christian festival known as “Mothering sunday.” the roots of the modern Mother’s Day date back to the 19th century. Years before the Civil War (1861-1865), Ann reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start “Mothers’ Day Work Clubs” to teach local

“the only love that I really believe in is a mother’s love for her children.” - Karl Lagerfeld, fashion designer

“All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” - Abraham Lincoln, Us President

“My mother is a walking miracle.” - Leonardo DiCaprio, actor “God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers.” - Joseph rudyard Kipling, - english journalist, writer, poet and novelist (18651936)

“to describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power.” - Maya Angelou, writer, poet and civil rights leader

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY mAY 6, 2016

An Asian Journal Magazine

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY m AY 6 , 20 1 6

Comcast promotes diverse film and TV line-up in celebration of AsianPacific American Heritage Month Content Includes Movies from Center for Asian American Media, Well Go USA entertainment, eros now and tV Japan. In recognition of AsianPacific American Heritage Month, Comcast will promote a collection of Asian-American content across Xfinity on Demand platforms, highlighted by a selection of new films from the Center for Asian American Media such as “Am I American,”“American Arab,”“off the Menu” and “Someone else.” the collection will also feature Asian Action films from Well Go USA entertainment such as “IP Man 3” and “the Assassin.” “We are thrilled to bring this year’s remarkable stories that represent the diversity of voices of the Asian American community to our customers,” said Javier Garcia, SVP and GM of Multicultural Services, Comcast Cable. “this curated collection of programming once again underscores our commitment of offer prime international programming to Xfinity on Demand viewers all year round.” Additional programming that will be featured this month includes: • the new collection of on demand programming from tV

Japan • Best of Interpretations from “Fast & Furious” director Justin Lin’s YoMYoMF • A collection of films from eros now including “Singham Returns,” “Raanjhana,” and “Grand Masti” • Programming from Filipino on Demand, GMA network, MyX network and tV K-Pop Music Videos. • A collection of free films from HI-YAH! including “the thieves,” “new World” and “A Simple Life.” • A free month-long preview of GMA Pinoy tV including its latest program launches ‘“Yan Ang Morning,”“once Again,” “Magkaibang Mundo,” and “Juan Happy Love Story”—and its anticipated coverage of the upcoming Philippine presidential election. Select programming will be featured on Xfinity’s Asian website (www.xfinity.com/asia) and all programming will be available under the “Multicultural” section on Xfinity on Demand, under Asian Heritage Month or Asian American Heritage Month. Most content will also be available on mobile devices via the Xfinity tV Go website and app. Learn more at xfinity.com/Asia. (Advertising Supplement)

PAFCOM crowns beauty queens in ‘Panagbenga’-themed gala On the PEP Front

People, events, Places BoBBy T. yalong tHe Philippine-American Friendship Committee, Inc. (PAFCoM), a Jersey City-based socio-civic service-oriented organization, has long journeyed and rousingly established its dedicated advocacy of providing community service and assistance programs which enormously covered various activities that have brought about effectual social well-being and sustainable assistance in many Jersey City communities. this year, as the organization turns another milestone and in its continuing attempt to bring to light distinct regional festivities, PAFCoM leans towards celebrating its Friendship and Coronation night with an electrifying theme… the famous and world-renowned Panagbenga Flower Festival of Baguio City. the word “Panagbenga” is a Malay-Polynesian term which means “season of blooming” or “a time for flowering” which was earlier adapted through the endorsement of archivist and art curator Ike Picpican in 1961.the

(with Sue Henderson, Ph.D. and Councilman Jonathan Wong as Honorary Grand Marshals), the Panagbenga-themed affair of colossal magnitude follows on Saturday, May 28, 2016 at the posh newark Liberty International Airport Marriott Hotel (1 Hotel Road, newark, nJ 07114) --- the grand Friendship and Coronation Ball. 2016 Bb. Pilipinas Jessica Lynn Miss Liberty 2016 Sabrina Miss Teen PAFCOM 2016 to circumspectly uphold the Angelina Rose Javier Soriano Ramos authenticity of one of the most attended regional festivals in the country, working committee heads unanimously chose an eminent community leader, Dr. Dolly Rivera, as the Panagbenga Queen, she, being a legitimate native of Baguio. And to flatteringly inject that genuine ethnical distinction, the stylishly up-to-date Panagbenga Miss Little PAFCOM 2016 Miss PAFCOM 2016 Vanessa Mutya ng Silangan 2016 Queen will be escorted by prominent members of BIBAK Mykaela Rae Castillo Santiago Jazmine Andes (acronym for the indigenous sub-groups and dominant cultural tribes of the Cordillera Region: Benguet, Ifugao, Bontoc, Apayao, and Kalinga) who will be garbed in their authentic regional or tribal costumes. Highlighting the much-awaited event is the startling participation of Filipina beauties who will be crowned that technically entitle Rose P. Javier Friendship and PAFCOM President 2016 Ledy Mrs. PAFCOM 2016 Tenette them for a slot in the roster of Coronation Ball Chair Almadin Juarez Lirio PAFCoM’s Royal Court of Muses: carousels and carriages that festival is highlighted by floraltenette Juarez Lirio as Mrs. parade around the city streets with PAFCoM 2016, Vanessa Santiago as covered floats and bloom-laden floral-clad dancers closely inspired Miss PAFCoM 2016, Angelina Rose by the Bendian, an Ibaloy tribe Javier as Miss teen PAFCoM 2016, dance of celebration by natives of Sabrina Ramos as Miss Liberty the Cordillera region 2016, Jessica Lynn Soriano as Bb. the month-long floral-themed Pilipinas 2016, Jazmine Andes celebration has been a customary as Mutya ng Silangan 2016, and festivity in Baguio City every Mykaela Rae Castillo as Miss Little month of February primarily to pay PAFCoM 2016. tribute to the abundance of the Incidentally, PAFCoM has city’s flowers during this season enormously lined-up other big and secondly, it became a way to events in this year’s celebration: rise from the massive devastation a Flag Raising Ceremony is of the 1990 Luzon earthquake. slated on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 Inspired and motivated by at the Jersey City City Hall; the Baguio’s annual flower feast, the annual Parade and Festival occurs indefatigable PAFCoM president on Sunday, June 26, 2016 which Ledy Almadin and this year’s Gala commences with a Holy Mass and Coronation Chair Rose P. Javier at our Lady of Victory Church at unanimously arrived at a common 10:00 AM, followed with a parade scheme of having a Panagbengaat 11:30 and fittingly capped with themed affair… not only recreating a Festival entertainment galore at the ambitious setting but to stamp the airy Lincoln Park from 1:00 PM a uniquely peculiar vista while to 6:00 PM. simultaneously establishing a A wide array of Festival paramount scene of grandiose Booths that vend a wide variety scope… something absolutely of merchandise (from clothing to new-fangled and innovatively fashion accessories to souvenir apart from among the already items and food stuff) will be ready customary event set-ups around. to welcome visitors and sightseers In a recent closed-door from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. the meeting to firm up and mobilize five-hour entertainment show plus every detail, Projects Coordinating the eight hours of booth-hopping Committee Chair Helen Castillo spree are, indubitably, more than and Board of Directors Viceenough to fully spend and enjoy Chair & Cultural Committee a guaranteed stress-relieving and Chair Isagani Puertollano pleasurable last Sunday of June. enthusiastically approved the idea Just when you thought that and instantaneously gave their was all there’s to it, think again. thumbs-up signal in unison. PAFCoM has reserved an exciting After having celebrated its Golf tournament for the sport buffs vanguard event that honored on Sunday, July 30, 2016 at 8:00 AM Gwen De Vera as this year’s Grand at the Skyway Golf Course along Marshal via a lavish dinner-dance 515 Duncan Avenue in Jersey City. last April 16 at Pavilion at Crowne It’s but fitting and proper to Continued on Page 6 Plaza in Cherry Hill, new Jersey,

Zsa Zsa Padilla on breakup with fiancé: We tried, it didn’t work out

Zsa Zsa Padilla on breakup with architect Conrad Onglao: We tried, it didn’t work out.

ZSA ZSA Padilla made a short statement about her split with architect Conrad onglao. “We tried. It didn’t work out,” was all the Divine Diva said about their breakup, Philippine entertainment Portal reported. the report about the breakup came out tuesday, May 3, although Zsa Zsa’s daughter, Karylle doesn’t know the reason behind the split. It was Karylle who confirmed the breakup of her mom with onglao. “It’s very sad kasi she called off the engagement,” Karylle said about the couple’s split. “She’s back home and ‘yun siguro, let’s just give her to time to just really process things and heal,” she added. “I don’t know... I don’t think so, but that’s not really for me

to say,” replied Karylle when asked about the possibility of Zsa Zsa and Conrad getting back together. Although she’s very protective of her mom, Karylle said she’s not holding any grudge against onglao, and all that matters is her mother’s welfare. She then tells her mom’s fans “for your prayers and also siguro the time to be alone and private about it.” Meanwhile, on her time off, Zsa Zsa seems to draw strength from her friends. on tuesday, Kris Aquino posted a photo of Zsa Zsa with her sons Josh and Bimby during the singer-actress’ visit to her that day. the Queen of All Media said she’ll always love Zsa Zsa, who was her friend for 20 years now. (Philstar.com)

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

Relief from removal/ deportation because notice sent to old address

MANY people were ordered removed/deported “in absentia” (in their absence) because they did not appear at their removal hearing. However, if they were not properly notified of the hearing date, there could be hope to have the case reopened and have the removal/deportation order canceled. By law, an alien must provide the government with their current address and let the government know if they move or have a change of address. But, if the government then sends the hearing notice to an old or incorrect address, this could be a basis to have the case reopened. There was a recent court case, where an alien was picked up and provided the immigration officer with her current address. The immigration officer issued a Notice to Appear (NTA), listing her previous address, and then later sent a notice of the date and time of the hearing to that same old address. Naturally, the alien failed to appear at the hearing, because she never received the notice. The court held that because the government sent the hearing notice to the old address after the alien had notified the government of her current address, it was improper to have her ordered removed in absentia.

If you have been ordered removed, but did not receive proper notice, you should consult with an attorney, who can evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action. However, be aware of the following: • If you received a hearing notice sent to your current address, but were just too afraid to go to the hearing, this ruling would not necessarily apply to you, as it deals with situations where the person did not receive notice. • The government would want written proof you notified them of your current or new address (i.e. certified letter, AR-11, etc.), versus your mere “verbal” testimony, such as “I made a phone call and told the person I moved. But I did not get their name and there is nothing in writing to prove my story.” (However, in the above case, the alien verbally provided the immigration officer of her new address. But written proof is better and stronger). • If you will seek to reopen your case, it would be a good idea that you already have a “form of relief” available to you, or an immediate way to get a green card, such as you may have married a US citizen, your U.S. born child is now over 21, etc. It may not do any good to have a case reopened if you do not have a way

Immigration Corner

Prof. enriQue M. SoriAno I HAD a wonderful time exchanging notes with the participants of my Family Business Talk last Friday, April 29, at the Holiday Inn in Makati. It was a sold out event with whole families coming in droves and occupying several tables armed with loads of questions related to governance. To those who attended, many thanks! It is my sincere desire that the key learning highlighted

in the talk can translate into actual application and pocket wins leading to harmony and growth in your respective family businesses. Family feuds in the Philippines, and elsewhere in the world, have always been about money, lots of money. However, although estate fights are commonly perceived to be just about money, there is almost always more to a family war than just the money. Many estate disputes are sewn by the

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY m AY 6 , 20 1 6

to get a green card at that time. This is because the judge may reopen the case, due to your lack of notice, and just re – order you removed. • It is also important to evaluate the reasons you were originally placed in removal/ deportation, such as did you overstay, or did you commit a serious crime? That is why it is best to first have an attorney evaluate your case, gather and package the appropriate proof and documentation, and represent you in court. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

Family feuds and shattered families

The Kite Runner

An Asian Journal

seeds of jealousy, greed, thirst for control, bitterness, hatred, and hurt feelings resulting from real or perceived preferential treatment by a parent. The infighting becomes more intense if the patriarch or matriarch had another family on the side or children from previous marital relationships. A significant number of inheritance disputes also involve testators and beneficiaries who come from dysfunctional families, are mentally ill or addicted.

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FATHER AND DAUGHTER REUNITE AFTER 40 YEARS OF LIFE-CHANGING CHOICES AND “MISFORTUNES” ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Decades ago, Tatay Rolando left his wife and daughters in the Philippines to seek a better life in the US. After getting his green card, he petitioned his family, except for Anna Lyn (center) who had turned 21, and was left behind. The years that followed became a series of rough twists and turns for Anna Lyn, including being caught attempting to enter the US on a fraudulent visa. After a fraud waiver prepared by another attorney was denied, leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) put together a convincing fraud waiver package that was quickly approved, paving the way for the much-awaited, happy reunion of this family on a brand-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY – new time of 2:50pm (PST) and 5:50pm (EST) only this Sunday, May 8 – to give way to the Halalan 2016 coverage on TFC.

Fraudulent visa, fraud denial, broken marriage, and other misfortunes for this desperate daughter – on Citizen Pinoy ANNA LYN was left behind in the Philippines after her family migrated to the US. When she attempted to enter the US with a fraudulent passport and assumed name visa in 1995, she was caught at the airport, charged with fraud, and sent immediately back to the Philippines. A series of other misfortunes fell on Anna Lyn’s lap, including a marriage to a US citizen who abandoned her; denial of a fraud waiver, and another

relationship that did not work out. The family heard of the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel, but later engaged the services of another lawyer who was “cheaper”, but could not deliver results. Anna Lyn’s parents finally decided that Atty. Gurfinkel could be their only hope. And true enough, despite a previous denial of her fraud waiver, leading US immigration attorney Michael Gurfinkel put

together a well-prepared fraud waiver package, which was quickly approved, paving the way for a tearful, but joyous reunion for the family. A first Christmas together after 40 years for this family, on a brand-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY–new time of 2:50 pm (PST) and 5:50 pm (EST) only this Sunday, May 8 – to give way to the Halalan 2016 coverage on TFC.

According to lawyer P. Mark Accettura, author of the book “Blood & Money: Why Families Fight Over Inheritance and What To Do About It,” the combatants can always trace their problems back several years, if not all the way back to childhood. It is clear that inheritance conflict doesn’t come out of nowhere; it is a continuation of long-term relationship problems that resurface upon the illness or

death of a loved one. And they aren’t just about money or greed; they are about more, much more. But what is it that so often drives people to wage war against their own flesh and blood over a loved one’s estate? There are five basic reasons why families fight in matters of inheritance. Author Mark Accettura accurately points to the following: 1. First, humans are

genetically predisposed to competition and conflict; 2. Our psychological sense of self is intertwined with the approval that an inheritance represents, especially when the decedent is a parent, 3. We are genetically hardwired to be on the lookout for exclusion, sometimes finding it when it doesn’t exist; 4. Families fight because the Continued on Page 6

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caM highlights reynas of 38th and Flores De Mayo Fillipino-Native American holds Benefit Santacruzan The meaning behind our traditions Santacruzan & Flores De Mayo An Asian Journal

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for Drums Along the Hudson Celebration HEaDED by Filipino-native american Kamala cesar, Lotus Music & Dance will host a benefit on tuesday, May 10, for the 14th annual Drums along the Hudson: a native american and Multicultural celebration at the famed Faison Firehouse theater in Harlem. From 6-9PM, the evening will include a screening Lotus’ newest collaboration with tony award winning choreographer, George Faison—“Erasing Boundaries” along with a reading of excerpts from “Gandhi’s Outstanding Leadership” by Pascal alan nazareth with guest artist, Odissi dancer Bani ray and a native american Hoop Dance Demonstration by Marie Ponce. For tickets, call 212-627-1076 or visit www.lotusmusicanddance.org. “Drums along the Hudson is sponsored in part by the new York city Department of cultural affairs and the new York city council. this event is FrEE to the public” said Ms. cesar, “grant support only covers a portion of the cost. We need to raise funds to match these funds.” In addition, a silent auction of unique and exciting goods and services that represent Lotus’ multi-cultural institution will be conducted during a special post performance dinner of South asian food catered by Gaurav anand, owner of awadh, Moti Mahal and

Kamala Cesar (4th from Left) with Benefit Host Committee.

Bhatti. native american jewelry, paintings, hotel packages in the uS, Mexico and around the world, including El nido, Palawan Philippines are among the special items available in the Lotus Music & Dance Silent auction. the silent auction online bidding begins on thursday, May 5th 12noon at https://www. biddingforgood.com/lotus the online bidding closes on tuesday, May 10th 6PM at Faison Firehouse theater, 6 Hancock Place in new York city. a week-long stay in a cozy vacation cottage in truro, cape cod, Ma will be auctioned off live at the Benefit. the new “work in progress”

at the Benefit will be a reading of excerpts from “Gandhi’s Oustanding Leadership” recounting episodes from Gandhi’s life of protesting oppression and danced by Odissi dancer, Bani ray, said Ms. cesar. Mr. Faison was inspired by the book to create Erasing Boundaries as an expression of how the arts are a beacon of harmony in times of turmoil. the piece brings together contemporary, Okinawan, Flamenco, native american, Hawaiian, Bharata natyam and West african dancers. For more information, please visit www.drumsalongthehudson. org

May is asthma awareness Month Mount Sinai Doctors offer tips on staying healthy

FOr those with asthma, springtime brings an increase in symptoms, making awareness of symptom triggers and health risk factors particularly crucial. according to the american academy of allergy, asthma and Immunology, 25 million or 8% of the uS population suffer from asthma. the cost associated with care and absences from work due to illness is over $56 billion each year. a diagnosis of asthma can lead to limited physical activity, absences from work or school, and frequent emergency room visits. “asthma is a lifelong disease that causes wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing,” said Linda rogers, MD, associate Professor of Pulmonary,

critical care and Sleep Medicine at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Director of the clinical asthma Program at Mount Sinainational Jewish Health respiratory Institute. “While there is no cure for asthma, a personalized care plan including appropriate medications and education on triggers and proper care techniques can prevent attacks from occurring, helping patients lead a full and active life.” Signs and Symptoms of an asthma attack During an asthma attack, airways and lungs swell and constrict airflow. tightened airways can also cause mucous to build up and further limit air supply. Symptoms may include wheezing, chest tightness, coughing and

trouble breathing. asthma attack triggers are unique to each sufferer, but some common triggers include: • tobacco smoke • Outdoor air pollution • Dust mites • Pet dander • Idling cars • cockroach allergen • Mold In addition to performing research on the underlying causes of asthma, Mount Sinai is using mobile devices to track, educate and monitor asthmatic patients. the asthma Health app allows asthma patients to self-monitor symptoms and triggers, promotes positive behavioral changes and adherence to treatment plans, and provides researchers with critical data.

John Lloyd on same day film screening with JaDine: not an issue by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

HaVInG more Filipino films on the same showing date means a growing film industry, this is how John Lloyd cruz sees the same showing date of his film “Just the 3 of us” and JaDine’s “this time.” John Lloyd and Jennylyn Mercado’s film was originally slated to be in cinemas last april 27, but due to some production concerns they had to move it on the next week which is May 4. On the other hand, James reid and nadine Lustre’s film has been slated for May 4 since the first release of their teaser. “Parang I don’t think that’s the issue,” the Kapamilya actor said in an interview on Sunday. “Puwedeng mas kumita ‘yong sa kanila, mas kumita ‘yong sa amin,

it’s all the same.” Proof is him also promoting “this time” in “aSaP” on Sunday after promoting his film. John Lloyd also noted that whatever the outcome of the two films may be, what will benefit is the whole film industry. “Para sa akin isa lang naman sinasabi n’yan, e, we have a growing industry and we have to embrace it as one,” he said. “If you’re working in one industry pare-pareho lang ‘yan. Hindi naman tayo mag-celebrate kapag hindi kumita ang isang pelikula.” “‘Wag dapat magbilangan, magsiraan. Kumbaga lahat naman ito tayo-tayo ang mag-benefit, e,” he added. another local film will be in cinemas that day, which is “DiyosDiyosan” which stars John Prats,

student and graduated with honors. currently, she is a 7th grade student at Franklin L. Williams Middle School. Her favorite subjects are Mathematics, Science, Drama, Music, art and English. zezlet, also known as Lhet-let, grew up with her Grandparents, Lolo alfredo and Lola Purificacion in their province, Isabela , while her parents are working abroad. She is a friendly and funny person. She is happy and proud to be the reyna Elena of the Santacruzan. Maria Ysabella Calleja (Reyna De Las Flores) MarIa YSaBELLa caLLEJa is 12 years old. She is the daughter of Maricor and Derek. She was born in the Philippines and is currently residing in rahway new Jersey. She excels in academic and extracurricular activities such as twirling, all city string, volleyball, etc. She respresents Barbizon in Manhattan in acting and modeling. She also participates in illumni rondalla with the banduria. She loves to be the reyna De Las Flores of the Santacruzan. Ramona Sansait Gapasin (Reyna Emperatriz) raMOna SanSaIt GaPaSIn, is a Medical technologist, currently working at clara Maass Medical center, Barnabas Health. She is married to rogelio Gapasin and they were blessed with four children: rebecca Pagan, married to angel and has 2 sons, Bryan and Jayden; Jeffrey married to Sharon Lakatos; Patrick, married to anna Garcia with a daughter, Kalia; and Gregory married to Patricia rojas with a daughter, Emma Sofia. ramona and rogelio were honored as 2010 Parents of the Year by the Pan american concerned citizens action League, Inc. (PaccaL) and were crowned 20082010 Mr. & Mrs. Garden State by the Garden State Filipino-american association (GSFaa). ramona was also crowned Mrs. Garden State Hudson county in 2015. ramona is not a newcomer

Maureen Varco for the Festival Entertainment; and ness Bantog give credit where it is due. the for Photography. four months of unparalleled this Fiscal Year’s PaFcOM celebration wouldn’t be made officers are composed of: Ledy possible without the selfless almadin, President; rose P. Javier, commitment and driven allegiance President-elect; Susan Lagmay, John Lloyd Cruz doesn’t find any issue on Secretary; Lita roxas, treasurer; his film “Just the 3 of Us” having the same of conscientiously dependable Lito Pernia, auditor; and Lumen showing date as JaDine’s “This Time.” committee chairs that spearhead Philstar.com photo by Joyce Jimenez the team: rose P. Javier for castañeda, Press relations Officer. Friendship Ball and coronation Dr. constancia “connie” S. uy Princess Punzalan, cheska Diaz Gala; Isagani “Gani” Puertollano serves as the chairman of the and Kiko Estrada. for cultural affairs; Lito Pernia Board of Directors with Isagani for Parade; Mei Sia for the Grand “Gani” Puertollano as ViceMarshal Ball; Mike Florendo chairman. for Booths and Exhibits; Oscar committee chairs include: Fernando for the Golf tournament; Helen castillo as the Projects From Page 4

by Dolly Anne cArvAJAl Inquirer.net

James Reid and Nadine Lustre

“ugly duckling” phase? Yes, as a teenager. What’s the best part of being James Reid? I have dreams—and I live them. What’s the hardest part about being you? Sacrifice—mainly time for my friends, my family and myself. What don’t people know about James Reid? they know everything about me that I want them to know.

to Santacruzan, she was an Hermana Mayor in 2014. Her other affiliations include Pan american concerned citizens action League, Inc. (PaccaL) where she is currently the President; Garden State Filipino american association (GSFaa),board member; Philippine american Friendship committee (PaFcOM), member ; and Philippine Independence Day council of new York (PIDcI), volunteer. 38th Santacruzan & Flores De Mayo Festival 2016 On Sunday, May 29, the catholic action of Mary (caM) will celebrate its “38th Santacruzan & Flores de Mayo Festival 2016.” caM’s celebration is the largest and longest running Santacruzan in the East coast, uSa. the festival is an all-day event complete with over 100 vendors including, flea market type, food concessions, non-profit organizations, businesses, exhibitors, live on stage performances, arts and crafts, games and all day fun activities for the entire family. (10am-8pm) the highlight of the day is the religious Procession and the traditional celebration of the Santacruzan with the Hermanos y Hermanas Mayores, the reynas & Sagalas. there will be a mass at St. Mary’s church, Second St. corner of Erie St., Jersey city at 2:30 pm and the procession follows immediately after the mass. We are proud to announce this year’s Festival will be on (6) six city blocks along Manila ave. which includes the “Health Fair” and “Fil-am 5K race & 1 Mile run/ Walk.” (10am race start.) Last year’s Santacruzan Festival was attended by over 10,000 people. For more info visit: www. santacruzanfestival.com (stay tuned for website updates.) to register for the 5K race visit www. stx5k.com. to participate as a vendor please contact us via email: santacruzanstreetfair@gmail.com or call Joey Mayo – (917) 656-9443 / rick respicio (201) 993-8782. coordinating committee chair; Perla candilaria for Budget and Finance; Victor Sison, Esq. for nomination and Election; and councilman arvin amatorio, Esq. as Legal adviser. For additional information, inquiries, or ticket reservation, please call 201.479.8941 or email: pafcomnj@gmail.com. You may also visit www.pafcomnj.org or visit their Facebook page at PaFcOM_nJ or twitter account @ pafcom_nj and instagram account: pafcom_nj. Photo credit: Miss ness Bantog For comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.

Family feuds and shattered... From Page 5

I love, and that I would never want to hurt her. What has fame taught you? that if you want to be successful, then you shouldn’t want fame, fame should want you. What’s your advice to guys who are not as gorgeous as you on how to woo girls? confidence is key. Be happy with yourself and others will be, too. Did you ever go through an

Ramona S. Gapasin (Reyna Emperatriz), Zezlet Kae D. Depano (Reyna Elena), Maria Ysabella Calleja (Reyna De Las Flores)

PAFCOM crowns beauty queens...

James reid assures nadine Lustre: ‘She’s the one I love’ HOW many heartbeats away is love from friendship? Let James reid and nadine Lustre answer that in their movie, “this time.” James and nadine portray childhood best friends who are secretly in love with each other. Since they have a long-distance relationship, it adds excitement to their yearly summer rendezvous. But James is “reid” hotter than summer. Here’s my one-on-one with James: What made you decide that Nadine is “the one”? I can’t pinpoint anything specific. She slowly grew on me from being good friends and “partners in crime.” It’s everything about her—her attitude, her passion, her brains. and we found out that we have a lot in common—same taste in music, video games, fashion and a lot more. She just felt so right. How do you handle Nadine’s jealousy attack? I reassure her that she’s the one

Santacruzan is a religious commemoration of the finding of the true cross by the Emperatriz (thus, reyna Elena) mother of the roman Emperor constantine who, in the Edict of Milan in 313, legalized christianity. this paved the way for its spread throughout the world. But it is also the celebration of the Spanish springtime tradition of Flores de Mayo dedicated to the Blessed Mother with offerings of flowers and festive processions. In the Filipino way of brightening solemn events into joyous ones, the two feasts were merged to form what is now known as the “Queen of Filipino Feasts”, the Santacruzan. It is held on the 9th night of the novena honoring the Holy cross. the novena procession includes the reynas, Sagalas (muses), Flower Girls, angels, their Escorts and a display of biblical figures, characters of beauty, purity and fancy, and symbols of attributes to the Virgin Mary. the relic of the true cross, used to lead Santacruzan procession resides at St. aedan’s church. Jersey city. the catholic action of Mary (caM) will hold the “38th Santacruzan and Flores De Mayo” in Jersey city on Sunday, May 29, 2016 at St. Mary’s church (Second St./Erie St.). caM’s mission is to preserve our heritage by celebrating and sharing the meaning behind our Filipino religious and cultural traditions. caM’s celebration is the largest and longest running Santacruzan here in the East coast. CAM honors Reynas and Hermanos at Santacruzan Ball the Santacruzan Presentation Ball will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2016 (6:30 pm) at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel - newark, nJ (formerly the Sheraton Hotel). caM proudly announces the presentation of this year’s reynas: zezlet Kae D. Depano - reyna Elena, Maria Ysabella calleja - reyna De Las Flores & ramona S. Gapasin - reyna Emperatriz. caM is also honored to distinguish and present this year’s Hermanos y Hermanas Mayores: Leticia r. Balagot, Lee Gloria Bracero, ruth P. Sa-Onoy, Gregory De Guzman & Dr. Prospero a. Lim. We would like to thank these prominent members of the Filipino community for their generous contributions to the Parish. Zezlet Kae D. Depano (Reyna Elena) zEzLEt KaE D. DEPanO is a 14-year old daughter of Merlie and Joel. She was born in trece Martires, cavite city, Philippines. She has a younger brother, Jome Yohance. a very school oriented girl, she is part of a theater club that performs in other schools and hospitals. She’s an animal lover and also loves arts, photography, music, reading and speech. a very sporty girl, she plays volleyball and badminton and loves to skate and roller blade. Her dream is to become a Lawyer or a Doctor and be able to travel around the world someday with her family and friends. zezlet studied in the Philippines where she was a consistently honor

death of a loved one activates the death anxieties of those left behind; and finally, 5. In some cases, one or more members of a family has a partial or full-blown personality disorder that causes them to distort and escalate natural family rivalries into personal and legal battles. accettura cites that these sources of family conflict are not mutually exclusive; in most cases, some combination of the five elements present themselves in a combustible cocktail of family rivalry and conflict. case in point: the bitter family squabble over the estate left by Lawyer and businessman Potenciano “nanoy” Ilusorio, which included shares in Philippine communications Satellite corp. (Philcomsat) and the Baguio country club, valued at between one and two billion pesos at the time of his death in 2001. Pitting one set of siblings

against another, the Ilusorio family feud has dragged on for more than 15 years now, clogged the court system with more than 300 legal suits and counter-suits, and entertained the idly curious as it played out in the media over the years. to quote media covering the conflict: “It’s not the first ‘prominent/ wealthy family’ inheritance battle waged nor will it certainly be the last, but the on-going estate litigation of Potenciano ‘nanoy’ Ilusorio’s heirs has emerged as one of the longest, nastiest, most public, no-holds-barred litigious family feuds in Philippine history or in the annals of jurisprudence.” Far from easing tensions, the death last Feb. 17, 2016 of Potenciano’s widow, Erlinda “nena” Kalaw-Ilusorio, in new York city, seems to have raised the simmering bad blood between the rival family factions back to boiling point. In a newspaper article that

came out two months ago, the rival factions are now said to be fighting over the ashes of the dearly departed, a weird echo of the tug-of-war they played over the custody of their aged and non compos mentis father just before his death in 2001, and quite possibly, a prelude to renewed fighting on the legal front over her estate, on top of the pending tussle over other Ilusorio assets. (To be continued) *** Prof. Soriano is an ASEAN Family Business Advisor, Book Author and Executive Director of ASEAN-based Consulting group, Wong + Bernstein Advisory. He is slated to deliver a series of talks in the US this May. Grab Prof Soriano’s book as he shares his insights and offer solutions to Family Businesses through his second book entitled “Ensuring The Family Business Legacy”. For those interested, please call Marianne at +639255224713 or email her at mrevilla@wongadvisory.com. Prof Soriano’s business articles can also be accessed at www.Faminbusiness.com.

Traveling to Asia? Fly China Airlines and enjoy a free half-day tour courtesy of Taiwan Tourism Bureau

THE thought of flying halfway across the world for more 12 hours is sometimes too daunting for many people. Understandably, long haul flights do not hold any appeal even to the most seasoned travelers. Long haul flights are intimidating if you travel infrequently. The journey could be very exhausting. Not only does it wreak havoc to your body but affects your sleeping pattern as well. And for us Asians who had made America our home, taking long haul flights had been the norm rather than the rule if we are to maintain our close relationship with our families and friends back home. When travelling halfway across the globe to see family and

friends or attend some important business engagement, the last thing you want is to arrive at your destination dragging yourself due to exhaustion. Surely there are ways to address this. Fortunately, airlines are constantly upgrading their services to address and meet the needs of their passengers – especially their loyal customers. And the good news is that some flights are certainly better than others because some airlines have fine-tuned the longhaul experience to make it as comfortable and pleasant to the passengers as possible. One such airline is China Airlines, which operates twice weekly flights between Los Angeles

and Taipei. The airline is one of a handful of carriers that are really reinventing their passenger experience from the ground up. Among China Airlines’ many innovations is the Family Couch, which it launched in 2014. It is a cost-effective and new alternative to business class’ 180-degree flat bed seats. Available on all its B777 routes, China Airlines’ Family Couch is a row of three Economy Class seats that together adapt to create a flat flexible space to stretch out and relax in, giving the passenger the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable sleep inflight. The Family Couch is perfect for those travelling with small children because the seats are specially designed to convert into a sofa. China Airlines, Taiwan’s largest airline, is reported to be the first airline other than Air New Zealand to install the Family Couch seats, which are not only revolutionary but also provide comfort and ease to those flying long haul. What

The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is an impressive monument built in commemoration of the late President Chiang. Photo courtesy of Taiwan Tourism Bureau

A product presentation seminar jointly conducted by Taiwan Tourism Bureau and China Airlines features the Free Half-Day Taipei Tour. Filipinos traveling to the Philippines who are in transit or have a layover of at least 7 hours in Taipei can participate in the Free Half-Day Tour courtesy of Taiwan Tourism Bureau. Photo courtesy of Taiwan Tourism Bureau

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could be more appealing than arriving at your destination well rested, refreshed and eager to plunge into the day’s activities? China Airlines’ Premium Economy cabin also offers a pleasant comfortable flying experience. China Airlines Premium Economy Cabin features wider seats perfectly suited for sitting in pairs, and a lot more passenger space that increases your personal space from your neighbor. Other features include enhanced dining options compared to economy, improved amenity kits, inflight entertainment is extensive with an excellent range of current blockbusters and classic films which can be viewed on individual 12.1” touchscreen monitor. Plus, there’s Wi-Fi onboard. And if you are a transit or transfer passenger with 7- to 24-hour layovers before your next connecting flight, who have a valid visa, or from a country eligible for visa-exempt entry to Taiwan, you can avail of the Free Half-Day Tour offered by China Airlines in partnership with the Taiwan Tourism Bureau. Passenger can choose from two tours that are available depending on your arrival in Taiwan: the morning tour or the afternoon tour. The morning tour will give you an opportunity to visit Taiwan’s Shou Sin Fang Creativity Wagashi and Cultural Center, a pastry factory in Taipei, which showcases Taiwan’s local cakes and pastries. Here visitors experience the production process, see artifacts displays, and experience other services, which provide them a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s culture and customs. From there, the tour takes the visitor to Sanxia, about 22 kilometers southwest of Taipei. It is a bustling town with narrow, winding streets and brick buildings, many of them over a century old. The main attraction here is the Zushi Temple, which was built in honor of Song Dynasty loyalist Chen Chao-ying, a famous general who was deified as “Protector of the Country” for his achievements and valor. The temple is known for its intricately carved stone and bronze columns and statues, and especially for its unique bird art. There are also carved stone lions, camphor woodcarvings, and exquisite

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Zushi Temple, one of the destinations featured in the free half-day Taipei tour, was built in honor of Song Dynasty loyalist Chen Chao-ying, a famous general who was deified as “Protector of the Country” for his achievements and valor.

bronze bas-reliefs. The afternoon tour, meanwhile, features the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, an impressive monument built in commemoration of the late President Chiang. The majestic hall towers over 25 hectares of landscaped gardens, pavilions and ponds. Here you will find the statue of the late president looking out over the city from the main building. Another highlight of the afternoon tour is a visit to Longshan Temple, located in Taipei’s Wanhua District. The temple was founded in 1738 and is dedicated to Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. The temple houses hundreds of statues of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian deities. Paintings of various creatures grace the temple walls, while stone statues of mystical creatures stand guard on the temple grounds. Citizens from India, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia who have a valid visa or hold a permanent resident certificates from US, Canada, Japan, UK, Schengen countries, Australia or New Zealand are also eligible to avail and participate in the Free Half-Day Tour. Remember, however, that you must have a valid travel documents, such as your passport and a completed immigration disembarkation card. The Taiwan Tourism Bureau and China Airlines make it easy for passenger to participate in the Free Half-Day Tour. All you have to do is book a tour upon your arrival at the airport at the designated Tourist Service Center in the Arrival Lobby. One thing to keep in mind:

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passengers can join only one tour during each stopover. It is also worth nothing that the tour is offered on a first come, first serve basis, with each tour limited to 18 passengers. For group application of four passengers or less you may email your application to the airport at cks@tbroc.gov.tw within 10 to 5 working days prior to your departure date. However, for bigger group of five passengers or more, the application must be sent directly to Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s head office at tinghung@tbroc.gov. tw within one month or 14 days prior to departure date. Filipino-Americans who plan on traveling to the Philippines for the coming Christmas season may want to consider taking advantage of the comfort offered by China Airlines’ Family Couch seats or its Premium Economy Cabin. Promotions are ongoing right now, so you may want to contact your travel agents as soon as possible and avail of the free half-day tour in Taipei courtesy of Taiwan Tourism Bureau during your layover before continuing on your onward journey to the Philippines. *** Manny V. Ilagan is a Tourism Specialist with over 23 years experience in the tourism and travel industry. He provides travel consultancy services to some of the biggest wholesalers and tour operators in the country as well as to some airline companies. He is the former Tourism Director-OIC of the Philippine Department of Tourism-Los Angeles, where he worked for over two decades. As a writer, he has written numerous articles about travel and tourism, which have been published in various Filipino-American newspapers in Los Angeles and San Diego.

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